News Summary
Florida has announced a significant expansion of its sales tax holiday, now including firearms and ammunition for the first time. Starting September 8, this new initiative aims to provide substantial savings for shoppers over nearly four months. While it allows customers to save an estimated $44.8 million, it raises concerns among critics regarding potential increases in firearm purchases and public safety. The absence of a price cap on eligible items further sets this holiday apart from previous ones, sparking mixed reactions from legislators and gun rights advocates.
Florida has announced the expansion of its sales tax holiday to include firearms and ammunition for the first time, a move that aims to provide significant savings for shoppers. The new holiday will commence on September 8, 2025, and will extend until the end of the year, marking a notable change in the state’s tax regulations.
This expansion was formalized when Governor Ron DeSantis signed the law in June 2025, which was part of a larger tax package designated HB 7031. Initially, the sales tax holiday was intended to last for six weeks but has now been extended to cover nearly four months of eligible purchases.
According to state economists, the expanded holiday is projected to allow shoppers to save approximately $44.8 million on tax-exempt items. Conversely, the holiday is expected to cost the state nearly $35 million in lost revenue, alongside an estimated reduction of just over $10 million in local government revenue.
What is Tax-exempt?
The items that will be exempt from sales tax under this holiday include not only firearms and ammunition but also a wide range of related accessories such as charging handles, cleaning kits, holsters, pistol grips, sights or optics, and stocks. Additionally, equipment used for archery, including bows, crossbows, arrows, bolts, quarrels, and quivers, will also benefit from this tax relief.
Price Cap and Consumer Impact
One of the significant differences in this holiday compared to previous tax holidays in Florida is the absence of a price cap on firearms and ammunition. This means that consumers can purchase high-cost items without the extra burden of sales tax, a feature that is expected to boost sales considerably. For instance, quality firearms can range from $400 to well over $2,500. Likewise, the cost of ammunition remains high, with many users at shooting ranges potentially spending hundreds of dollars solely on ammunition.
Reception and Criticism
The National Rifle Association (NRA) has praised the initiative, lauding Governor DeSantis and Florida legislators for their support of gun rights and for making firearms more accessible to the public. However, there is a notable divide in public opinion regarding this holiday. Critics are expressing concerns about the potential increase in firearm purchases, arguing that the measure may not primarily cater to legitimate hunting activities but could rather promote unregulated gun sales.
Democratic Senator Tina Polsky has labeled the sales tax holiday as politically motivated and irresponsible, citing the need for more stringent regulations on firearm purchases. Further criticism has emerged regarding the lack of provisions for gun safes and locks in the exemption, raising questions about the safety implications of increasing firearm accessibility without accompanying safety measures.
Encouraging Outdoor Activities
Despite the criticisms, the governor has emphasized that the holiday is designed to promote outdoor activities throughout the state. The availability of public shooting sports ranges is expected to attract enthusiasts and families looking to engage in shooting sports during this period.
In summary, Florida’s decision to include firearms and ammunition in its sales tax holiday represents a significant shift in tax policy, aiming to provide relief for consumers while stimulating sales in the firearm industry. However, the anticipated economic advantage comes with a range of opinions on the implications for public safety, highlighting the complexity surrounding gun legislation and consumer rights.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Fox Business: Florida Lifts Sales Tax on Firearms and Ammunition
- Wikipedia: Sales Tax Holiday
- News4Jax: Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday in Florida
- Google Search: Florida Sales Tax Holiday 2025
- CBS News: Florida Sales Tax Exemption for Guns and Ammo
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Taxation
- Main Street Daily News: Florida Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday
- Google News: Florida Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday
- NBC Miami: Florida’s Sales Tax Holiday for Guns and Ammo
- Google Scholar: Florida Sales Tax Legislation
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
