Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Rockaway) has sponsored legislation, (A.6532-B), known as the “disaster preparedness and emergency planning act” which will provide a sales tax exemption for emergency preparedness supplies to encourage families and small businesses to take proactive steps and plan for disaster.

“Many families suffered during Sandy because they were not prepared and did not have the necessary tools to react to a disaster,” said Assemblyman Goldfeder. “This legislation will encourage every resident to better prepare for potential natural disasters and provide them the vital resources they need.”

The “Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Planning Act” would work to promote disaster/emergency preparedness and allow critical supplies to become more affordable by waiving a sales tax charge. According to a recent survey on disaster preparedness commissioned by the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA), 82% of individuals feel that preparation, planning, and emergency supplies would help them handle a natural disaster, but that preparation has been made by roughly 50% of the population, with the percentage dropping significantly based on age, demographics and income levels.

The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, in conjunction with the Department of Taxation and Finance, would establish, publish and promote a list of items eligible for the sales and use tax exemption for emergency preparedness supplies.

“Sandy was a wakeup call for our families that we need to be more prepared for severe weather,” concluded Assemblyman Goldfeder. “The best way to prepare is to have all necessary resources and tools in your home before disaster strikes. This bill, if passed, will help promote emergency preparedness and allow every resident to afford the supplies they need.”

(YWN Desk – NYC)