Florida Introduces Sales-Tax Exemption on Hunting Gear Including Firearms

Starting September 8, 2025, Florida will offer a sales-tax exemption on hunting equipment, including guns and ammunition, through the end of the year. This is the first time such an exemption has included firearms and ammo. Talon Tactical Outfitters, located west of Tallahassee, has increased its inventory in preparation for the tax holiday. A neighboring firing range owner, Johnson, expects increased gun purchases due to the upcoming tax holiday, which will provide a significant discount. He notes that quality handguns cost $400 to over $1,000, and hunting rifles range from $500 to $2,500, plus additional costs for scopes. Florida lawmakers passed a broad tax package (HB 7031) in June, which includes a sales tax exemption on camping and fishing equipment through the end of the year. The state traditionally offers tax holidays for back-to-school supplies and hurricane-preparation items. This year's tax package also included a back-to-school tax holiday that lasted throughout August. Additionally, Gov. Ron DeSantis proposed a 'Second Amendment Summer' tax holiday as part of his budget recommendations. State economists predict that the holiday will save shoppers $44.8 million, reducing state revenue by $34.6 million and local revenue by $10.2 million. Sen. Tina Polsky criticized the proposed tax break for gun purchases, including accessories like silencers, as 'irresponsible and politically motivated,' stating it disregards the impact on victims and their families. She noted that the tax exemption does not require the firearms to be used for hunting and has no price cap, unlike exemptions for items such as clothes and personal computers.