Rhode Island Lawmaker Pitches Storm Preparation Tax Holiday

A Rhode Island lawmaker wants to establish an annual tax holiday for the sale of flashlights, can openers, first-aid kits and other storm preparation items.

State Rep. Brian Kennedy says his proposal would eliminate the sales taxes on storm preparation purchases during one weekend each August.

Kennedy, a Hopkinton Democrat, says severe storms are becoming more common in Rhode Island and that it makes sense for the state to encourage residents to equip themselves for hurricanes, nor’easters and winter storms.

The sales tax exemption would apply to portable generators, fuel containers, coolers and other items commonly purchased for use during storms.

Kennedy says Virginia and Alabama already have tax holidays before the start of hurricane season.

Kennedy announced his legislation on Friday. It has not been scheduled for a vote.