As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 29, 1999
File Nos.
02-94222
811-4149
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM N-1A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
Pre-Effective Amendment No.
Post-Effective Amendment No. 27 (X)
and/or
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940
Amendment No. 28 (X)
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
777 MARINERS ISLAND BLVD., SAN MATEO, CA 94404
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code (650)312-2000
DEBORAH R. GATZEK, 777 MARINERS ISLAND BLVD., SAN MATEO, CA 94404
(Name and Address of Agent for Service of Process)
Approximate Date of Proposed Public Offering:
It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box)
[ ] immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)
[ ] on (date) pursuant to paragraph (b)
[ ] 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
[x] on July 1, 1999 pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of Rule 485
[ ] 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)
[ ] on (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of rule 485
If appropriate, check the following box:
[ ] This post-effective amendment designates a new effective
date for a previously filed post-effective amendment.
Prospectus
Franklin Tax-Free Trust
Franklin Arizona Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
Franklin Florida Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
Franklin Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A & Class C
Franklin Massachusetts Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A & Class C
Franklin Michigan Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A & Class C
Franklin Minnesota Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A & Class C
Franklin Ohio Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A & Class C
INVESTMENT STRATEGY TAX-FREE INCOME
JULY 1, 1999
[Insert Franklin Templeton Ben Head]
THE SEC HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE
ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL
OFFENSE.
CONTENTS
THE FUNDS
[Begin callout]
INFORMATION ABOUT EACH FUND YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE INVESTING
[End callout]
[insert page #] Goals and Strategies
[insert page #] Main Risks
[insert page #] Performance
[insert page #] Fees and Expenses
[insert page #] Management
[insert page #] Distributions and Taxes
[insert page #] Financial Highlights
YOUR ACCOUNT
[Begin callout]
INFORMATION ABOUT SALES CHARGES, ACCOUNT TRANSACTIONS AND SERVICES
[End callout]
[insert page #] Choosing a Share Class
[insert page #] Buying Shares
[insert page #] Investor Services
[insert page #] Selling Shares
[insert page #] Account Policies
[insert page #] Questions
FOR MORE INFORMATION
[Begin callout]
WHERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT EACH FUND
[End callout]
Back Cover
THE FUNDS
[Insert graphic of bullseye and arrows] GOALS AND STRATEGIES
GOALS Each fund's investment goal is to provide investors with as high a
level of income exempt from federal income taxes as is consistent with
prudent investing, while seeking preservation of shareholders' capital. Each
state fund also tries to provide a maximum level of income exempt from
personal income taxes, if any, for resident shareholders of the fund's state.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENTS Each fund normally invests predominately in insured
municipal securities whose interest is free from federal income taxes,
including the federal alternative minimum tax, and, in the case of each state
fund, the personal income taxes, if any, of the fund's state. Although each
fund tries to invest all of its assets in tax-free securities, it is
possible, although not anticipated, that up to 20% of its assets may be in
securities that pay taxable interest.
[Begin callout]
MUNICIPAL SECURITIES are issued by state and local governments, their
agencies and authorities, as well as by the District of Columbia and U.S.
territories and possessions, to borrow money for various public and private
projects. The issuer pays a fixed or variable rate of interest, and must
repay the amount borrowed (the "principal") at maturity.
[End callout]
Each fund invests at least 65% of its total assets in insured municipal
securities, which are covered by insurance policies that guarantee the timely
payment of principal and interest. The fund buys insured municipal securities
only if they are covered by policies provided by AAA-rated municipal bond
insurers. Currently, there are four municipal bond insurers with a AAA
rating. The fund pays insurance premiums either directly or indirectly, which
increases the credit safety of its insured investments, but decreases its
yield.
Each fund may invest the balance of its assets in the following types of
uninsured securities: (i) municipal securities secured by an escrow or trust
account containing direct U.S. government obligations; (ii) securities rated
in one of the top three ratings by U.S. nationally recognized rating services
(or comparable unrated securities); or (iii) short-term, tax-exempt
securities rated in the top rating, pending investment in longer-term
municipal securities. Each fund may only invest up to 20% of its total assets
in the type of securities described in (ii) above.
The manager selects securities that it believes will provide the best balance
between risk and return within a fund's range of allowable investments and
typically uses a buy and hold strategy. This means it holds securities in the
fund's portfolio for income purposes, rather than trading securities for
capital gains, although the manager may sell a security at any time if it
believes it could help the fund meet its goal. The manager also may consider
the cost of insurance when selecting securities for a fund.
Each fund may invest in top rated variable and floating rate securities,
whose interest rates change either at specific intervals or whenever a
benchmark rate changes. While this feature helps protect against a decline in
the security's market price when interest rates go up, it lowers the fund's
income when interest rates fall.
Each fund also may invest in municipal lease obligations, which generally are
issued to finance the purchase of public property. The property is leased to
a state or local government and the lease payments are used to pay the
interest on the obligations. These differ from other municipal securities
because the money to make the lease payments must be set aside each year or
the lease can be cancelled without penalty. If this happens, investors who
own the obligations may not be paid.
TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS The manager may take a temporary defensive position
when it believes the securities trading markets or the economy are
experiencing excessive volatility or a prolonged general decline, or other
unusual or adverse conditions exist. Under these circumstances, a fund may be
unable to pursue its investment goals, because it may not invest or may
invest substantially less in tax-free securities or, in the case of the state
funds, in municipal securities of the fund's state.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT INSURANCE DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE MARKET VALUE OF
AN INSURED SECURITY, OR THE FUND'S SHARE PRICE OR DISTRIBUTIONS, AND SHARES
OF THE FUND ARE NOT INSURED.
[Insert graphic of chart with line going up and down] MAIN RISKS
INCOME Since each fund can only distribute what it earns, the fund's
distributions to shareholders may decline when interest rates fall.
CREDIT There is the possibility that an issuer will be unable to make
interest payments and repay principal. Changes in an issuer's financial
strength or in a security's credit rating may affect a security's value and,
thus, impact fund performance.
Many of each fund's portfolio securities are supported by credit
enhancements, which may be provided by either U.S. or foreign entities. These
securities have the credit risk of the entity providing the credit support. A
change in the credit rating of any one or more of the municipal bond insurers
that insure securities in the fund's portfolio may affect the value of the
securities they insure and the fund's share price. Credit support provided by
a foreign entity may be less certain because of the possibility of adverse
foreign economic, political or legal developments that may affect the ability
of that entity to meet its obligations.
[Begin callout]
Because interest rates and municipal security prices fluctuate, the amount of
the fund's distributions and the value of your investment in the fund will go
up and down. This means you could lose money over short or even extended
periods.
[End callout]
INTEREST RATE When interest rates go up, municipal security prices fall. The
opposite is also true: municipal security prices go up when interest rates
fall. In general, securities with longer maturities are more sensitive to
these price changes.
CALL There is the likelihood that a security will be prepaid (called) before
maturity. An issuer is more likely to call its securities when interest rates
are falling, because the issuer can issue new securities with lower interest
payments. If a security is called, the fund may have to replace it with a
lower-yielding security. At any time, each fund may have a large amount of
its assets invested in municipal securities subject to call risk, including
escrow-secured or defeased bonds. A call of some or all of these securities
may lower the fund's income and its distributions to shareholders.
MARKET A security's value may be reduced by market activity or the results of
supply and demand. This is a basic risk associated with all securities. When
there are more sellers than buyers, prices tend to fall. Likewise, when there
are more buyers than sellers, prices tend to go up.
Each fund may invest more than 25% of its assets in municipal securities that
finance similar types of projects, such as hospitals, housing, industrial
development, transportation or pollution control. A change that affects one
project, such as proposed legislation on the financing of the project, a
shortage of the materials needed for the project, or a declining need for the
project, would likely affect all similar projects, thereby increasing market
risk.
WHEN-ISSUED AND DELAYED DELIVERY TRANSACTIONS Municipal securities may be
issued on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis, where payment and delivery
take place at a future date. Since the market price of the security may
fluctuate during the time before payment and delivery, the fund assumes the
risk that the value of the security at delivery may be more or less than the
purchase price.
DIVERSIFICATION The Arizona and Florida Funds are non-diversified funds.
They may invest a greater portion of their assets in the municipal securities
of one issuer than a diversified fund. These funds may be more sensitive to
economic, business, political or other changes affecting similar issuers or
securities, which may result in greater fluctuation in the value of their
shares. The funds, however, intend to meet certain tax diversification
requirements. The other funds are all diversified funds.
Each state fund may involve more risk than an investment in a fund that does
not focus on securities of a single state. The Franklin Insured Tax-Free
Income Fund is diversified nationally and will not invest more than 25% of
its total assets in the municipal securities of any one state or territory.
STATE Since each state fund invests heavily in municipal securities of its
state, events in that state are likely to affect the fund's investments and
its performance. These events may include economic or political policy
changes, tax base erosion, state constitutional limits on tax increases,
budget deficits and other financial difficulties, and changes in the ratings
assigned to the state's municipal issuers.
A negative change in any one of these or other areas could affect the ability
of a state's municipal issuers to meet their obligations. It is important to
remember that economic, budget and other conditions within a state are
unpredictable and can change at any time.
To the extent the Franklin Insured Tax-Free Income Fund is invested in a
state, events in that state may affect its investments and its performance.
U.S. TERRITORIES Each fund may invest in municipal securities issued by U.S.
territories. As with state municipal securities, events in any of these
territories where a fund is invested may affect the fund's investments and
its performance.
YEAR 2000 When evaluating current and potential portfolio positions, Year
2000 is one of the factors the funds' manager considers.
Municipal issuers generally are not required to report on their Year 2000
readiness. This makes it more difficult for the manager to evaluate their
readiness. There have been reports, however, that many municipal issuers are
behind in their efforts to address the Year 2000 problem. The manager, of
course, cannot audit each issuer and its major suppliers to verify their Year
2000 readiness. The manager is making extensive efforts, however, to contact
the issuers of municipal securities held by the funds to try to assess their
Year 2000 readiness.
If an issuer in which the fund is invested is adversely affected by Year 2000
problems, it is possible that the issuer's ability to make timely interest
and principal payments also will be affected, at least temporarily. This may
affect both the amount and timing of the fund's distributions and the fund's
performance. It also is likely that the price of the issuer's securities will
be adversely affected. A decrease in the value of one or more of the fund's
portfolio holdings will have a similar impact on the fund's performance.
Please see page [#] for more information.
More detailed information about the fund, its policies (including temporary
investments), risks and municipal securities ratings can be found in the
fund's Statement of Additional Information (SAI).
[Begin callout]
Mutual fund shares are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed or
endorsed by, any bank, and are not federally insured by the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board, or any other agency of the
U.S. government. Mutual fund shares involve investment risks, including the
possible loss of principal.
[End callout]
[Insert graphic of a bull and a bear] PERFORMANCE
This bar chart and table show the volatility of each fund's returns, which is
one indicator of the risks of investing in a fund. The bar chart shows
changes in each fund's returns from year to year over the past 5 calendar
years for the Arizona and Florida Funds and the past 10 calendar years for
the remaining funds. The table shows how each fund's average annual total
returns compare to those of a broad-based securities market index. Of course,
past performance cannot predict or guarantee future results.
ARIZONA FUND - ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
-8.26 21.20% 8.69% 4.59% 6.31%
94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 9.53%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -7.89%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS SINCE
INCEPTION
(4/30/93)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund 2 1.76% 5.17% 5.99%
Lehman Brothers Municipal 6.48% 6.23% 6.77%
Bond Index 3
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was -3.73%.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest. One cannot invest directly
in an index, nor is an index representative of the fund's portfolio.
FLORIDA FUND - ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
-9.85 21.24% 8.00% 5.02% 6.67%
94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 9.30%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -8.79%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS SINCE
INCEPTION
(4/30/93)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Florida Fund 2 2.16% 4.84% 5.46%
Lehman Brothers Municipal 6.48% 6.23% 6.77%
Bond Index 3
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was -3.86%.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest. One cannot invest directly
in an index, nor is an index representative of the fund's portfolio.
INSURED FUND - CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
9.99% 6.57% 11.35% 9.38% 11.83% -3.59% 13.60% 4.18% 8.11% 6.04%
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q2 '89 5.68%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -4.22%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Insured Fund - Class A 2 1.51% 4.61% 7.18%
Lehman Brothers Municipal 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
Bond Index 3
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Insured Fund - Class C 2 3.36% 6.25%
Lehman Brothers Municipal 6.48% 8.10%
Bond Index 3
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was -3.79% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest. One cannot invest directly
in an index, nor is an index representative of the fund's portfolio.
MASSACHUSETTS FUND - CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
9.12% 5.10% 11.46% 8.98% 11.79% -3.63% 14.06% 8.53% 4.21% 5.39%
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 5.87%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '97 -4.53%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Massachusetts Fund - Class A 2 0.93% 4.64% 6.93%
Lehman Brothers Municipal 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
Bond Index 3
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Massachusetts Fund - Class C 2 2.90% 6.18%
Lehman Brothers Municipal 6.48% 8.10%
Bond Index 3
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was -3.62% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest. One cannot invest directly
in an index, nor is an index representative of the fund's portfolio.
MICHIGAN FUND - CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
9.49% 6.10% 10.96% 9.45% 12.09% -3.93% 13.83% 8.87% 3.58% 6.47%
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q2 '89 5.81%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '97 -4.60%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Michigan Fund - Class A 2 1.95% 4.69% 7.12%
Lehman Brothers Municipal 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
Bond Index 3
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Michigan Fund - Class C 2 3.90% 6.44%
Lehman Brothers Municipal 6.48% 8.10%
Bond Index 3
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of June 30, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was -3.52% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest. One cannot invest directly
in an index, nor is an index representative of the fund's portfolio.
MINNESOTA FUND - CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
9.46% 5.82% 10.86% 8.62% 10.98% -3.55% 13.31% 3.49% 7.69% 5.68%
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 5.70%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -3.83%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Minnesota Fund - Class A 2 1.19% 4.26% 6.67%
Lehman Brothers Municipal 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
Bond Index 3
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Minnesota Fund - Class C 2 3.14% 5.72%
Lehman Brothers Municipal 6.48% 8.10%
Bond Index 3
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was -3.86% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest. One cannot invest directly
in an index, nor is an index representative of the fund's portfolio.
OHIO FUND - CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
9.25% 6.64% 10.95% 8.98% 12.47% -4.48% 14.34% 4.47% 8.16% 5.94%
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 6.09
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -4.75%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Ohio Fund - Class A 2 1.46% 4.60% 7.09%
Lehman Brothers Municipal 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
Bond Index 3
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Ohio Fund - Class C 2 3.25% 6.37%
Lehman Brothers Municipal 6.48% 8.10%
Bond Index 3
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was -3.74% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest. One cannot invest directly
in an index, nor is an index representative of the fund's portfolio.
[Insert graphic of percentage sign] FEES AND EXPENSES
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and
hold shares of a fund.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ARIZONA FLORIDA INSURED MASSACHUSETTS MICHIGAN MINNESOTA OHIO
FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS A 1
Maximum sales charge (load)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
as a percentage of offering price 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25%
Load imposed on purchases 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25%
Maximum deferred
sales charge (load)2 NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE NONE
Exchange Fee (per transaction) NONE NONE $5.00 4 NONE NONE NONE NONE
CLASS C 1
Maximum Sales charge (load)
as a percentage of offering price - - 1.99% 1.99% 1.99% 1.99% 1.99%
load imposed on purchases - - 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% 1.00%
Maximum deferred
sales charge (load)3 - - 0.99% 0.99% 0.99% 0.99% 0.99%
Exchange Fee (per transaction) - - $5.00 4 NONE NONE NONE NONE
Please see "Choosing a Share Class" on page [#] for an explanation of how and
when these sales charges apply.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES DEDUCTED FROM FUND ASSETS)
CLASS A 1
Management fees 0.66% 5 0.62% 5 0.47% 0.52% 0.47% 0.50% 0.48%
Distribution and service
(12b-1) fees 6 0.10% 0.10% 0.09% 0.09% 0.09% 0.09% 0.09%
Other expenses 0.08% 0.07% 0.06% 0.07% 0.07% 0.08% 0.08%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total annual
fund operating expenses 0.84% 5 0.79% 5 0.62% 0.68% 0.63% 0.67% 0.65%
=========================================================================
CLASS C 1
Management fees - - 0.47% 0.52% 0.47% 0.50% 0.48%
Distribution and service
(12b-1 fees) 6 - - 0.65% 0.65% 0.65% 0.65% 0.65%
Other expenses - - 0.06% 0.07% 0.07% 0.08% 0.08%
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total annual
fund operating expenses - - 1.18% 1.24% 1.19% 1.23% 1.21%
</TABLE>
1. Before January 1, 1999, Class A shares were designated Class I and Class C
shares were designated Class II.
2. Except for investments of $1 million or more (see page [#]).
3. This is equivalent to a charge of 1% based on net asset value.
4. This fee is only for market timers (see page [#]).
5. For the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999, the manager had agreed in
advance to limit its management fees. With this reduction, management fees
were 0.19% for the Arizona Fund and 0.25% for the Florida Fund and total
annual fund operating expenses were 0.37% for the Arizona Fund and 0.42% for
the Florida Fund.
6. Because of the distribution and service (12b-1) fees, over the long term
you may indirectly pay more than the equivalent of the maximum permitted
initial sales charge.
EXAMPLE
This example can help you compare the cost of investing in a fund with the
cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes you invest $10,000 for the periods shown and then sell
all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes your
investment has a 5% return each year and a fund's operating expenses remain
the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these
assumptions your costs would be:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ARIZONA FLORIDA INSURED MASSACHUSETTS MICHIGAN MINNESOTA OHIO
FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS A
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1 Year1...........$ 507 $ 502 $ 486 $ 492 $ 487 $ 491 $ 489
3 Years ..........$ 682 $ 667 $ 615 $ 633 $ 618 $ 630 $ 624
5 Years ..........$ 871 $ 845 $ 756 $ 788 $ 761 $ 782 $ 772
10 Years .........$1,418 $1,361 $1,166 $1,236 $1,178 $1,224 $1,201
CLASS C
1 Year2 .......... - - $ 317 $ 323 $ 318 $ 322 $ 320
3 Years .......... - - $ 471 $ 489 $ 474 $ 486 $ 480
5 Years .......... - - $ 743 $ 774 $ 748 $ 769 $ 758
10 Years ......... - - $1,517 $1,585 $1,529 $1,574 $1,551
</TABLE>
1. Assumes a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) will not apply.
2. For the same Class C investment, your costs would be $219 for the Insured
Fund, $225 for the Massachusetts Fund, $220 for the Michigan Fund, $224 for
the Minnesota Fund, and $222 for the Ohio Fund if you did not sell your
shares at the end of the first year. Your costs for the remaining periods
would be the same.
[Insert graphic of briefcase] MANAGEMENT
Franklin Advisers, Inc. (Advisers), 777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA
94404, is each fund's investment manager. Together, Advisers and its
affiliates manage over $216 billion in assets.
The team responsible for each fund's management is:
THOMAS KENNY, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Mr. Kenny has been an analyst or portfolio manager of the Arizona and Florida
Funds since their inception and the Insured Massachusetts, Michigan,
Minnesota, and Ohio Funds since 1987. He is the Director of Franklin's
Municipal Bond Department. He joined the Franklin Templeton Group in 1986.
JOHN POMEROY, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Mr. Pomeroy has been an analyst or portfolio manager of the Arizona and
Florida Funds since their inception and the Insured Massachusetts, Michigan,
Minnesota, and Ohio Funds since 1989. He joined the Franklin Templeton Group
in 1986.
SHEILA AMOROSO, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Ms. Amoroso has been an analyst or portfolio manager of the Massachusetts,
Michigan and Minnesota funds since 1987. She joined the Franklin Templeton
Group in 1986.
STELLA WONG, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Ms. Wong has been an analyst or portfolio manager of the Florida Fund since
inception and the Ohio Fund since 1986. She joined the Franklin Templeton
Group in 1986.
CARRIE HIGGINS, PORTFOLIO MANAGER OF ADVISERS
Ms. Higgins has been an analyst or portfolio manager of the Arizona Fund
since inception. She joined the Franklin Templeton Group in 1990.
Each fund pays the manager a fee for managing the fund's assets and making
its investment decisions. For the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999, each
fund paid, as a percentage of its average monthly net assets, the following
to the manager:
MANAGEMENT
FEES
Arizona Fund .................. 0.19% 1
Florida Fund .................. 0.25% 1
Insured Fund .................. 0.47%
Massachusetts Fund ............ 0.52%
Michigan Fund ................. 0.47%
Minnesota Fund ................ 0.50%
Ohio Fund ..................... 0.48%
1. Management fees, before any advance waiver, were 0.66% for the Arizona
Fund and 0.62% for the Florida Fund of the fund's average monthly net assets.
Under an agreement by the manager to limit its fees, the Arizona Fund paid
0.19% and the Florida Fund paid 0.25% of its average monthly net assets to
the manager. The manager may end this arrangement at any time upon notice to
the fund's Board of Trustees.
YEAR 2000 PROBLEM Each fund's business operations depend on a worldwide
network of computer systems that contain date fields, including securities
trading systems, securities transfer agent operations and stock market links.
Many of the systems currently use a two digit date field to represent the
date, and unless these systems are changed or modified, they may not be able
to distinguish the Year 1900 from the Year 2000 (commonly referred to as the
Year 2000 problem). In addition, the fact that the Year 2000 is a leap year
may create difficulties for some systems.
When the Year 2000 arrives, the funds' operations could be adversely affected
if the computer systems used by the manager, its service providers and other
third parties it does business with are not Year 2000 ready. For example, the
funds' portfolio and operational areas could be impacted, including
securities trade processing, interest and dividend payments, securities
pricing, shareholder account services, reporting, custody functions and
others.
Each fund's manager and its affiliated service providers are making a
concerted effort to take steps they believe are reasonably designed to
address their Year 2000 problems. Of course, the funds' ability to reduce the
effects of the Year 2000 problem is also very much dependent upon the efforts
of third parties over which the funds and their manager may have no control.
[Insert graphic of dollar
signs and stacks of coins] DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
INCOME AND CAPITAL GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS Each fund declares dividends daily
from its net investment income and pays them monthly on or about the 20th day
of the month. Your account may begin to receive dividends on the day after we
receive your investment and will continue to receive dividends through the
day we receive a request to sell your shares. Capital gains, if any, may be
distributed twice a year. The amount of these distributions will vary and
there is no guarantee the funds will pay dividends.
Please keep in mind that if you invest in a fund shortly before the fund
deducts a capital gain distribution from its net asset value, you will
receive some of your investment back in the form of a taxable distribution.
TAX CONSIDERATIONS Fund distributions will consist primarily of
exempt-interest dividends from interest earned on municipal securities. In
general, exempt-interest dividends are exempt from federal income tax. Each
fund, however, may invest a portion of its assets in securities that pay
income that is not tax-exempt. Fund distributions from such income are
taxable to you as ordinary income. Any capital gains a fund distributes are
taxable to you as long-term capital gains no matter how long you have owned
your shares. Distributions of ordinary income or capital gains are taxable
whether you reinvest your distributions in additional fund shares or receive
them in cash.
[Begin callout]
BACKUP WITHHOLDING
By law, a fund must withhold 31% of your taxable distributions and proceeds
if you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number (TIN) or
certify that your TIN is correct, or if the IRS instructs a fund to do so.
[End callout]
Every January, you will receive a statement that shows the tax status of
distributions you received for the previous year. Distributions declared in
December but paid in January are taxable as if they were paid in December.
When you sell your shares of a fund, you may have a capital gain or loss. For
tax purposes, an exchange of your fund shares for shares of a different
Franklin Templeton Fund is the same as a sale. The individual tax rate on any
gain from the sale or exchange of your shares depends on how long you have
held your shares.
Exempt-interest dividends are taken into account when determining the taxable
portion of your social security or railroad retirement benefits. Each fund
may invest a portion of its assets in private activity bonds. The income from
these bonds is a preference item when determining your alternative minimum
tax.
Exempt-interest dividends from interest earned on municipal securities of a
state, or its political subdivisions, generally are exempt from that state's
personal income tax. Most states, however, do not grant tax-free treatment to
interest municipal securities of other states.
Distributions of ordinary income and capital gains, and gains from the sale
or exchange of your fund shares generally will be subject to state and local
income tax. Non-U.S. investors may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate
tax. You should consult your tax advisor about the federal, state, local or
foreign tax consequences of your investment in a fund.
[Insert graphic of a dollar bill] FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
This table presents each fund's financial performance for the past five
years. This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.
ARIZONA FUND
YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 10.77 10.36 10.36 9.80 10.28
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .53 .54 .55 .55 .55
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .07 .42 - .57 (.48)
-----------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .60 .96 .55 1.12 .07
-----------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.53) (.55) (.55) (.56) (.55)
------------------------------------------
Net asset value,
end of year 10.84 10.77 10.36 10.36 9.80
-------------------------------------------
Total return1 (%) 5.75 9.53 5.55 11.64 .94
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
(x 1,000) 80,684 58,059 39,693 38,199 20,794
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .37 .30 .25 .16 .10
Expenses excluding waiver
and payments by affiliate .84 .82 .86 .86 .96
Net investment income 4.87 5.11 5.45 5.51 5.80
Portfolio turnover rate 10.68 17.44 18.27 4.12 44.61
FLORIDA FUND
YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 10.43 9.99 10.02 9.53 10.07
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .51 .53 .53 .53 .52
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .10 .44 (.03) .49 (.53)
------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .61 .97 .50 1.02 (.01)
------------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.51) (.53) (.53) (.53) (.53)
------------------------------------------
Net asset value,
end of year 10.53 10.43 9.99 10.02 9.53
------------------------------------------
Total return1 (%) 6.01 9.94 5.17 10.95 .21
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
(x 1,000) 124,488 101,506 77,177 69,583 46,847
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .42 .35 .35 .35 .35
Expenses excluding waiver
and payments by affiliate .79 .80 .80 .82 .88
Net investment income 4.88 5.16 5.36 5.37 5.61
Portfolio turnover rate 1.81 8.08 32.23 24.36 43.71
INSURED FUND - CLASS A
YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.31 12.15 12.27 11.97 12.45
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .63 .66 .69 .71 .71
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .06 .29 (.11) .30 (.48)
-----------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .69 .95 .58 1.01 .23
----------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.63) (.66) (.70) (.71) (.71)
In excess of net investment
income (.01) (.01) - - -
Distributions from net
realized gains (.10) (.12) - - -
-----------------------------------------
Total distributions (.74) (.79) (.70) (.71) (.71)
-----------------------------------------
Net asset value,
end of year 12.26 12.31 12.15 12.27 11.97
-----------------------------------------
Total return1 (%) 5.72 8.09 4.88 8.66 2.03
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
(x 1 million) 1,727 1,685 1,662 1,705 1,683
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .62 .61 .60 .60 .59
Net investment income 5.11 5.44 5.68 5.81 6.00
Portfolio turnover rate 13.16 27.77 18.66 13.52 14.42
INSURED FUND - CLASS C
YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
1999 1998 1997 1996 3
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.38 12.21 12.31 11.98
--------------------------------------
Net investment income .57 .60 .62 .54
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .05 .29 (.09) .32
---------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .62 .89 .53 .86
---------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.57) 4 (.60) (.63) (.53)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.10) (.12) - -
---------------------------------------
Total distributions (.67) (.72) (.63) (.53)
---------------------------------------
Net asset value,
end of year 12.33 12.38 12.21 12.31
---------------------------------------
Total return1 (%) 5.12 7.52 4.42 7.32
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
(x 1,000) 65,166 38,057 21,521 8,152
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.18 1.18 1.17 1.18 2
Net investment income 4.54 4.86 5.10 5.21 2
Portfolio turnover rate 13.16 27.77 18.66 13.52
MASSACHUSETTS FUND - CLASS A
YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.75 11.54 11.65 11.34 11.81
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .59 .61 .63 .66 .66
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .03 .35 (.10) .31 (.47)
----------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .62 .96 .53 .97 .19
---------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.59) (.61) (.64)5 (.66) (.66)
In excess of net investment
income - (.01) - - -
Distributions from net
realized gains (.07) (.13) - - -
-----------------------------------------
Total distributions (.66) (.75) (.64) (.66) (.66)
-----------------------------------------
Net asset value,
end of year 11.71 11.75 11.54 11.65 11.34
-----------------------------------------
Total return1 (%) 5.36 8.50 4.75 8.80 1.83
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
(x 1,000) 340,109 328,147 325,065 301,529 288,331
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .68 .68 .68 .69 .67
Net investment income 4.99 5.21 5.51 5.67 5.89
Portfolio turnover rate 6.80 30.46 29.22 10.29 16.90
MASSACHUSETTS FUND - CLASS C
YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
1999 1998 1997 1996 3
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.80 11.59 11.69 11.36
----------------------------------
Net investment income .52 .55 .57 .50
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .03 .34 (.09) .32
-----------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .55 .89 .48 .82
-----------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.52) (.55) (.58) 5 (.49)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.07) (.13) - -
-----------------------------------
Total distributions (.59) (.68) (.58) (.49)
-----------------------------------
Net asset value,
end of year 11.76 11.80 11.59 11.69
-------------------------------------
Total return1 (%) 4.74 7.86 4.22 7.36
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
(x 1,000) 26,271 13,937 6,378 2,759
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.24 1.25 1.25 1.26 2
Net investment income 4.44 4.59 4.96 5.06 2
Portfolio turnover rate 6.80 30.46 29.22 10.29
MICHIGAN FUND - CLASS A
YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.20 $12.00 $12.09 $11.76 $12.24
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .61 .63 .66 .68 .69
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .13 .34 (.09) .34 (.48)
----------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .74 .97 .57 1.02 .21
---------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.61) (.63) (.66)6 (.69)5 (.69)
In excess of net investment
income - (.01) - - -
Distributions from net
realized gains (.05) (.13) - - -
-----------------------------------------
Total distributions (.66) (.77) (.66) (.69) (.69)
-----------------------------------------
Net asset value,
end of year 12.28 12.20 12.00 12.09 11.76
------------------------------------------
Total return1 (%) 6.23 8.37 4.90 8.86 1.87
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
(x 1 million) 1,161 1,143 1,112 1,115 1,038
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .63 .63 .62 .62 .61
Net investment income 4.98 5.24 5.52 5.65 5.87
Portfolio turnover rate 7.37 20.08 30.03 9.38 9.12
MICHIGAN FUND - CLASS C
YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
1999 1998 1997 1996 3
- --------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.27 12.07 12.14 11.77
-----------------------------------
Net investment income .55 .57 .59 .51
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .13 .33 (.07) .37
------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .68 .90 .52 .88
------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.54) (.57) (.59) (.51)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.05) (.13) - -
------------------------------------
Total distributions (.59) (.70) (.59) (.51)
------------------------------------
Net asset value,
end of year 12.36 12.27 12.07 12.14
------------------------------------
Total return1 (%) 5.71 7.70 4.44 7.58
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
(x 1,000) 49,970 32,873 20,162 6,683
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.19 1.20 1.19 1.20 2
Net investment income 4.42 4.67 4.94 5.03 2
Portfolio turnover rate 7.37 20.08 30.03 9.38
MINNESOTA FUND - CLASS A
YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.16 $12.01 $12.14 $11.88 $12.33
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .61 .64 .65 .67 .69
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .01 .25 (.12) .27 (.45)
------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .62 .89 .53 .94 .24
-----------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.62)5 (.64) (.66) (.68) (.69)4
Distributions from net
realized gains (.02) (.10) - - -
------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.64) (.74) (.66) (.68) (.69)
------------------------------------------
Net asset value,
end of year 12.14 12.16 12.01 12.14 11.88
------------------------------------------
Total return1 (%) 5.18 7.60 4.54 8.06 2.12
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
(x 1,000) 515,174 495,315 482,128 492,139 479,934
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .67 .65 .66 .66 .66
Net investment income 5.01 5.29 5.47 5.58 5.81
Portfolio turnover rate 16.25 14.87 14.40 17.72 17.59
MINNESOTA FUND - CLASS C
YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
1999 1998 1997 1996 3
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.21 12.05 12.17 11.89
-------------------------------------
Net investment income .54 .57 .59 .50
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .01 .26 (.12) .28
-------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .55 .83 .47 .78
-------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.55)5 (.57) (.59) (.50)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.02) (.10) - -
------------------------------------
Total distributions (.57) (.67) (.59) (.50)
------------------------------------
Net asset value,
end of year 12.19 12.21 12.05 12.17
--------------------------------------
Total retur 1 (%) 4.58 7.04 3.98 6.67
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
(x 1,000) 20,896 10,131 4,844 1,152
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.23 1.22 1.23 1.25 2
Net investment income 4.44 4.72 4.87 4.94 2
Portfolio turnover rate 16.25 14.87 14.40 17.72
OHIO FUND - CLASS A
YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.45 $12.19 $12.22 $11.90 $12.40
------------------------------------------
Net investment income .62 .64 .66 .68 .69
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .07 .33 (.03) .33 (.50)
------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .69 .97 .63 1.01 .19
------------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.62) (.64)8 (.66)9 (.69)5 (.69)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.03) (.07) - - -
------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.65) (.71) (.66) (.69) (.69)
------------------------------------------
Net asset value,
end of year 12.49 12.45 12.19 12.22 11.90
--------------------------------------------
Total return1 (%) 5.63 8.22 5.35 8.66 1.74
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
(x 1,000) 776,592 741,079 698,360 685,783 652,545
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .65 .64 .64 .64 .63
Net investment income 4.98 5.24 5.43 5.58 5.83
Portfolio turnover rate 6.56 12.84 14.95 11.47 11.76
OHIO FUND - CLASS C
YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
1999 1998 1997 1996 3
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.51 12.24 12.26 11.90
---------------------------------------
Net investment income .55 .58 .59 .52
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .08 .34 (.02) .35
---------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .63 .92 .57 .87
---------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.55) (.58) (.59) (.51)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.03) (.07) - -
---------------------------------------
Total distributions (.58) (.65) (.59) (.51)
---------------------------------------
Net asset value,
end of year 12.56 12.51 12.24 12.26
---------------------------------------
Total return1 (%) 5.10 7.66 4.79 7.43
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
(x 1,000) 42,258 28,178 15,786 6,085
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.21 1.20 1.20 1.22 2
Net investment income 4.42 4.67 4.80 4.99 2
Portfolio turnover rate 6.56 12.84 14.95 11.47
1. Total return does not include sales charges.
2. Annualized.
3. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for
Class
C.
4. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.004.
5. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.001.
6. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.002.
7. Includes distributions from net realized gains of $.004.
8. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.007.
9. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.003.
YOUR ACCOUNT
[Insert graphic of pencil marking an "X"] CHOOSING A SHARE CLASS
Each class has its own sales charge and expense structure, allowing you to
choose the class that best meets your situation. Your investment
representative can help you decide. The Arizona and Florida Funds only offer
Class A shares.
CLASS A CLASS C
- -------------------------------------------
o Initial sales o Initial sales
charge of 4.25% charge of 1%
or less
o Deferred sales o Deferred
charge of 1% on sales charge of
purchases of $1 1% on shares you
million or more sell within 18
sold within 12 months
months
o Lower annual o Higher annual
expenses than expenses than
Class C due to Class A due to
lower higher
distribution fees distribution
fees.
BEFORE JANUARY 1, 1999, CLASS A SHARES WERE DESIGNATED CLASS I AND CLASS C
SHARES WERE DESIGNATED CLASS II.
SALES CHARGES - CLASS A
THE SALES CHARGE
MAKES UP THIS % WHICH EQUALS THIS
WHEN YOU INVEST THIS AMOUNT OF THE OFFERING % OF YOUR NET
PRICE INVESTMENT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------
Under $100,000 4.25 4.44
$100,000 but under $250,000 3.50 3.63
$250,000 but under $500,000 2.50 2.56
$500,000 but under $1 2.00 2.04
million
INVESTMENTS OF $1 MILLION OR MORE If you invest $1 million or more, either
as a lump sum or through our cumulative quantity discount or letter of intent
programs (see page [#]), you can buy Class A shares without an initial sales
charge. However, there is a 1% contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) on any
shares you sell within 12 months of purchase. The way we calculate the CDSC
is the same for each class (please see page [#]).
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES Class A has a distribution plan,
sometimes known as a Rule 12b-1 plan, that allows the fund to pay
distribution fees of up to 0.15% for the Arizona and Florida Funds and 0.10%
for the remaining funds, per year to those who sell and distribute Class A
shares and provide other services to shareholders. Because these fees are
paid out of Class A's assets on an on-going basis, over time these fees will
increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other
types of sales charges.
SALES CHARGES - CLASS C
THE SALES CHARGE
MAKES UP THIS % WHICH EQUALS THIS
WHEN YOU INVEST THIS AMOUNT OF THE OFFERING % OF YOUR NET
PRICE INVESTMENT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------
Under $1 million 1.00 1.01
WE PLACE ANY INVESTMENT OF $1 MILLION OR MORE IN CLASS A SHARES, SINCE THERE
IS NO INITIAL SALES CHARGE AND CLASS A'S ANNUAL EXPENSES ARE LOWER.
CDSC There is a 1% contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) on any Class C
shares you sell within 18 months of purchase. The way we calculate the CDSC
is the same for each class (please see below).
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES Class C has a distribution plan,
sometimes known as a Rule 12b-1 plan, that allows each fund, except the
Arizona and Florida Funds, to pay distribution and other fees of up to 0.65%
per year for the sale of Class C shares and for services provided to
shareholders. Because these fees are paid out of Class C's assets on an
on-going basis, over time these fees will increase the cost of your
investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales charges.
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE (CDSC) - CLASS A & C
The CDSC for each class is based on the current value of the shares being
sold or their net asset value when purchased, whichever is less. There is no
CDSC on shares you acquire by reinvesting your dividends or capital gains
distributions.
[Begin callout]
The HOLDING PERIOD FOR THE CDSC begins on the day you buy your shares. Your
shares will age one month on that same date the next month and each following
month.
For example, if you buy shares on the 18th of the month, they will age one
month on the 18th day of the next month and each following month.
[End callout]
To keep your CDSC as low as possible, each time you place a request to sell
shares we will first sell any shares in your account that are not subject to
a CDSC. If there are not enough of these to meet your request, we will sell
the shares in the order they were purchased. We will use this same method if
you exchange your shares into another Franklin Templeton Fund (please see
page [#] for exchange information).
SALES CHARGE REDUCTIONS AND WAIVERS
If you qualify for any of the sales charge reductions or waivers below,
please let us know at the time you make your investment to help ensure you
receive the lower sales charge.
QUANTITY DISCOUNTS We offer several ways for you to combine your purchases
in the Franklin Templeton Funds to take advantage of the lower sales charges
for large purchases of Class A shares.
[Begin callout]
The FRANKLIN TEMPLETON FUNDS include all of the Franklin Templeton U.S.
registered mutual funds, except Franklin Valuemark Funds, Templeton Capital
Accumulator Fund, Inc., and Templeton Variable Products Series Fund.
[End callout]
o CUMULATIVE QUANTITY DISCOUNT - lets you combine all of your shares in
the Franklin Templeton Funds for purposes of calculating the sales charge.
You also may combine the shares of your spouse, and your children or
grandchildren, if they are under the age of 21. Certain company and
retirement plan accounts also may be included.
o LETTER OF INTENT (LOI) - expresses your intent to buy a stated dollar
amount of shares over a 13-month period and lets you receive the same sales
charge as if all shares had been purchased at one time. We will reserve a
portion of your shares to cover any additional sales charge that may apply
if you do not buy the amount stated in your LOI.
TO SIGN UP FOR THESE PROGRAMS, COMPLETE THE APPROPRIATE SECTION OF YOUR
ACCOUNT APPLICATION.
REINSTATEMENT PRIVILEGE If you sell shares of a Franklin Templeton Fund, you
may reinvest some or all of the proceeds within 365 days without an initial
sales charge. The proceeds must be reinvested within the same share class,
except proceeds from the sale of Class B shares will be reinvested in Class A
shares.
If you paid a CDSC when you sold your Class A or C shares, we will credit
your account with the amount of the CDSC paid but a new CDSC will apply. For
Class B shares reinvested in Class A, a new CDSC will not apply, although
your account will not be credited with the amount of any CDSC paid when you
sold your Class B shares.
Proceeds immediately placed in a Franklin Bank Certificate of Deposit (CD)
also may be reinvested without an initial sales charge if you reinvest them
within 365 days from the date the CD matures, including any rollover.
This privilege does not apply to shares you buy and sell under our exchange
program. Shares purchased with the proceeds from a money fund may be subject
to a sales charge.
SALES CHARGE WAIVERS Class A shares may be purchased without an initial
sales charge or CDSC by various individuals and institutions or by investors
who reinvest certain distributions and proceeds within 365 days. The CDSC for
each class also may be waived for certain redemptions and distribuitons. If
you would like information about available sales charge waivers, call your
investment representative or call Shareholder Services at 1-800/632-2301. A
list of available sales charge waivers also may be found in the Statement of
Additional Information (SAI).
GROUP INVESTMENT PROGRAM Allows established groups of 11 or more investors
to invest as a group. For sales charge purposes, the group's investments are
added together. There are certain other requirements and the group must have
a purpose other than buying fund shares at a discount.
[Insert graphic of a paper with lines
and someone writing] BUYING SHARES
MINIMUM INVESTMENTS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
INITIAL ADDITIONAL
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Regular accounts $1,000 $50
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
UGMA/UTMA accounts $100 $50
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Broker-dealer sponsored wrap account
programs $250 $50
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Full-time employees, officers,
trustees and directors of Franklin
Templeton entities, and their
immediate family members $100 $50
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
ACCOUNT APPLICATION If you are opening a new account, please complete and
sign the enclosed account application. Make sure you indicate the share class
you have chosen. If you do not indicate a class, we will place your purchase
in Class A shares. To save time, you can sign up now for services you may
want on your account by completing the appropriate sections of the
application (see the next page).
BUYING SHARES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
OPENING AN ACCOUNT ADDING TO AN ACCOUNT
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic
of hands shaking]
Contact your investment Contact your investment
THROUGH YOUR representative representative
INVESTMENT
REPRESENTATIVE
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
Make your check payable Make your check payable
[Insert graphic to the fund. to the fund. Include
of envelope] your account number on
Mail the check and your the check.
BY MAIL signed application to
Investor Services. Fill out the deposit
slip from your account
statement. If you do
not have a slip,
include a note with
your name, the fund
name, and your account
number.
Mail the check and
deposit slip or note to
Investor Services.
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic Call to receive a wire Call to receive a wire
of three control number and wire control number and wire
lightning bolts] instructions. instructions.
Wire the funds and mail To make a same day wire
your signed application investment, please call
BY WIRE to Investor Services. us by 1:00 p.m. pacific
Please include the wire time and make sure your
1-800/632-2301 control number or your wire arrives by 3:00
(or new account number on p.m.
1-650/312-2000 the application.
collect)
To make a same day wire
investment, please call
us by 1:00 p.m. pacific
time and make sure your
wire arrives by 3:00
p.m.
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic Call Shareholder Call Shareholder
of two arrows Services at the number Services at the number
pointing in below, or send signed below or our automated
opposite written instructions. TeleFACTS system, or
directions] The TeleFACTS system send signed written
cannot be used to open a instructions.
BY EXCHANGE new account.
(Please see page # for (Please see page # for
TeleFACTS(R) information on information on
1-800/247-1753 exchanges.) exchanges.)
(around-the-clock
access)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON INVESTOR SERVICES P.O. BOX 997151,
SACRAMENTO, CA 95899-9983
CALL TOLL-FREE: 1-800/632-2301
(MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 5:30 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M., PACIFIC TIME
SATURDAY 6:30 A.M. TO 2:30 P.M., PACIFIC TIME)
[Insert graphic of person with a headset] INVESTOR SERVICES
AUTOMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN This plan offers a convenient way for you to
invest in a fund by automatically transferring money from your checking or
savings account each month to buy shares. The minimum investment to open an
account with an automatic investment plan is $50. To sign up, complete the
appropriate section of your account application.
AUTOMATIC PAYROLL DEDUCTION You may be able to invest automatically in Class
A shares of the funds by transferring money from your paycheck to the funds
by electronic funds transfer. If you are interested, indicate on your
application that you would like to receive an Automatic Payroll Deduction
Program kit.
DISTRIBUTION OPTIONS You may reinvest distributions you receive from the
funds in an existing account in the same share class* of a fund or another
Franklin Templeton Fund. Initial sales charges and CDSCs will not apply if
you reinvest your distributions within 365 days. You can also have your
distributions deposited in a bank account, or mailed by check. Deposits to a
bank account may be made by electronic funds transfer.
Please indicate on your application the distribution option you have chosen,
otherwise we will reinvest your distributions in the same share class of the
fund.
*Class C shareholders may reinvest their distributions in Class A shares of
any Franklin Templeton money fund.
TELEFACTS(R) Our TeleFACTS system offers around-the-clock access to
information about your account or any Franklin Templeton Fund. This service
is available from touch-tone phones at 1-800/247-1753. For a free TeleFACTS
brochure, call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
TELEPHONE PRIVILEGES You will automatically receive telephone privileges
when you open your account, allowing you and your investment representative
to sell or exchange your shares and make certain other changes to your
account by phone.
For accounts with more than one registered owner, telephone privileges also
allow the funds to accept written instructions signed by only one owner for
transactions and account changes that could otherwise be made by phone. For
all other transactions and changes, all registered owners must sign the
instructions.
As long as we take certain measures to verify telephone requests, we will not
be responsible for any losses that may occur from unauthorized requests. Of
course, you can decline telephone exchange or redemption privileges on your
account application.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE You can exchange shares between most Franklin Templeton
Funds within the same class*, generally without paying any additional sales
charges. If you exchange shares held for less than six months, however, you
may be charged the difference between the initial sales charge of the two
funds if the difference is more than 0.25%. If you exchange shares from a
money fund, a sales charge may apply no matter how long you have held the
shares.
[Begin callout]
An EXCHANGE is really two transactions: a sale of one fund and the purchase
of another. In general, the same policies that apply to purchases and sales
apply to exchanges, including minimum investment amounts. Exchanges also have
the same tax consequences as ordinary sales and purchases.
[End callout]
Generally exchanges may only be made between identically registered accounts,
unless you send written instructions with a signature guarantee. Any CDSC
will continue to be calculated from the date of your initial investment and
will not be charged at the time of the exchange. The purchase price for
determining a CDSC on exchanged shares will be the price you paid for the
original shares. If you exchange shares subject to a CDSC into a Class A
money fund, the time your shares are held in the money fund will not count
towards the CDSC holding period.
Frequent exchanges can interfere with fund management or operations and drive
up costs for all shareholders. To protect shareholders, there are limits on
the number and amount of exchanges you may make (please see "Market Timers"
on page [#]).
*Certain Class Z shareholders of Franklin Mutual Series Fund Inc. may
exchange into Class A without any sales charge. Advisor Class shareholders of
another Franklin Templeton Fund also may exchange into Class A without any
sales charge. Advisor Class shareholders who exchange their shares for Class
A shares and later decide they would like to exchange into another fund that
offers Advisor Class may do so.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN This plan allows you to automatically sell your
shares and receive regular payments from your account. A CDSC may apply to
withdrawals that exceed certain amounts. Certain terms and minimums apply. To
sign up, complete the appropriate section of your application.
[Insert graphic of a certificate] SELLING SHARES
You can sell your shares at any time.
SELLING SHARES IN WRITING Requests to sell $100,000 or less can generally be
made over the phone or with a simple letter. Sometimes, however, to protect
you and the funds we will need written instructions signed by all registered
owners, with a signature guarantee for each owner, if:
[Begin callout]
A SIGNATURE GUARANTEE helps protect your account against fraud.
You can obtain a signature guarantee at most banks and securities dealers.
A notary public CANNOT provide a signature guarantee.
[End callout]
o you are selling more than $100,000 worth of shares
o you want your proceeds paid to someone who is not a registered owner
o you want to send your proceeds somewhere other than the address of
record, or preauthorized bank or brokerage firm account
We also may require a signature guarantee on instructions we receive from an
agent, not the registered owners, or when we believe it would protect the
funds against potential claims based on the instructions received.
SELLING RECENTLY PURCHASED SHARES If you sell shares recently purchased with
a check or draft, we may delay sending you the proceeds until your check or
draft has cleared, which may take seven business days or more. A certified or
cashier's check may clear in less time.
REDEMPTION PROCEEDS Your redemption check will be sent within seven days
after we receive your request in proper form. We are not able to receive or
pay out cash in the form of currency. Redemption proceeds may be delayed if
we have not yet received your signed account application.
SELLING SHARES
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
TO SELL SOME OR ALL OF YOUR SHARES
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of
hands shaking]
Contact your investment representative
THROUGH YOUR
INVESTMENT
REPRESENTATIVE
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of Send written instructions and endorsed
envelope] share certificates (if you hold share
certificates) to Investor Services.
BY MAIL Corporate, partnership or trust
accounts may need to send additional
documents.
Specify the fund, the account number
and the dollar value or number of
shares you wish to sell. Be sure to
include all necessary signatures and
any additional documents, as well as
signature guarantees if required.
A check will be mailed to the name(s)
and address on the account, or
otherwise according to your written
instructions.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of As long as your transaction is for
phone] $100,000 or less, you do not hold share
certificates and you have not changed
BY PHONE your address by phone within the last
15 days, you can sell your shares by
1-800/632-2301 phone.
A check will be mailed to the name(s)
and address on the account. Written
instructions, with a signature
guarantee, are required to send the
check to another address or to make it
payable to another person.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of You can call or write to have
three lightning redemption proceeds of $1,000 or more
bolts] wired to a bank or escrow account. See
the policies above for selling shares
by mail or phone.
Before requesting a bank wire, please
BY WIRE make sure we have your bank account
information on file. If we do not have
this information, you will need to send
written instructions with your bank's
name and address, your bank account
number, the ABA routing number, and a
signature guarantee.
Requests received in proper form by
1:00 p.m. pacific time will be wired
the next business day.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of Obtain a current prospectus for the
two arrows pointing fund you are considering.
in opposite
directions] Call Shareholder Services at the number
below or our automated TeleFACTS
BY EXCHANGE system, or send signed written
instructions. See the policies above
TeleFACTS(R) for selling shares by mail or phone.
1-800/247-1753
(around-the-clock If you hold share certificates, you
access) will need to return them to the fund
before your exchange can be processed.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON INVESTOR SERVICES P.O. BOX 997151,
SACRAMENTO, CA 95899-9983
CALL TOLL-FREE: 1-800/632-2301
(MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 5:30 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M., PACIFIC TIME
SATURDAY 6:30 A.M. TO 2:30 P.M., PACIFIC TIME)
[Insert graphic of paper and pen] ACCOUNT POLICIES
CALCULATING SHARE PRICE The funds calculate the net asset value per share
(NAV) each business day at the close of trading on the New York Stock
Exchange (normally 1:00 p.m. pacific time). Each class's NAV is calculated
by dividing its net assets by the number of its shares outstanding.
[Begin callout]
When you buy shares, you pay the offering price. The offering price is the
NAV plus any applicable sales charge.
When you sell shares, you receive the NAV minus any applicable contingent
deferred sales charge (CDSC).
[End callout]
The funds' assets are generally valued at their market value. If market
prices are unavailable, or if an event occurs after the close of the trading
market that materially affects the values, assets may be valued at their fair
value.
Requests to buy and sell shares are processed at the NAV next calculated
after we receive your request in proper form.
ACCOUNTS WITH LOW BALANCES If the value of your account falls below $250
($50 for employee and UGMA/UTMA accounts) because you sell some of your
shares, we may mail you a notice asking you to bring the account back up to
its applicable minimum investment amount. If you choose not to do so within
30 days, we may close your account and mail the proceeds to the address of
record. You will not be charged a CDSC if your account is closed for this
reason.
STATEMENTS AND REPORTS You will receive confirmations and account statements
that show your account transactions. You also will receive the funds'
financial reports every six months. To reduce fund expenses, we try to
identify related shareholders in a household and send only one copy of the
financial reports. If you need additional copies, please call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
If there is a dealer or other investment representative of record on your
account, he or she also will receive confirmations, account statements and
other information about your account directly from a fund.
STREET OR NOMINEE ACCOUNTS You may transfer your shares from the street or
nominee name account of one dealer to another, as long as both dealers have
an agreement with Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. We will process the
transfer after we receive authorization in proper form from your delivering
securities dealer.
JOINT ACCOUNTS Unless you specify a different registration, accounts with
two or more owners are registered as "joint tenants with rights of
survivorship" (shown as "Jt Ten" on your account statement). To make any
ownership changes to a joint account, all owners must agree in writing,
regardless of the law in your state.
MARKET TIMERS The Insured Fund may restrict or refuse exchanges by market
timers. If accepted, each exchange by a market timer will be charged $5 by
Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc., the fund's transfer agent. The
remaining funds do not allow investments by market timers. You will be
considered a market timer if you have (i) requested an exchange out of a fund
within two weeks of an earlier exchange request, or (ii) exchanged shares out
of a fund more than twice in a calendar quarter, or (iii) exchanged shares
equal to at least $5 million, or more than 1% of a fund's net assets, or (iv)
otherwise seem to follow a timing pattern. Shares under common ownership or
control are combined for these limits.
ADDITIONAL POLICIES Please note that the funda maintain additional policies
and reserves certain rights, including:
o The funds may refuse any order to buy shares, including any purchase
under the exchange privilege.
o At any time, the funds may change their investment minimums or waive or
lower their minimums for certain purchases.
o The funds may modify or discontinue the exchange privilege on 60 days'
notice.
o You may only buy shares of a fund eligible for sale in your state or
jurisdiction.
o In unusual circumstances, we may temporarily suspend redemptions, or
postpone the payment of proceeds, as allowed by federal securities laws.
o For redemptions over a certain amount, the funds reserve the right to
make payments in securities or other assets of the funds, in the case of an
emergency or if the payment by check or wire would be harmful to existing
shareholders.
o To permit investors to obtain the current price, dealers are responsible
for transmitting all orders to the funds promptly.
DEALER COMPENSATION Qualifying dealers who sell fund shares may receive
sales commissions and other payments. These are paid by Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc. (Distributors) from sales charges, distribution and
service (12b-1) fees and its other resources.
ARIZONA AND FLORIDA FUNDS CLASS A
- ------------------------------------------
COMMISSION (%) ---
Investment under $100,000 4.00
$100,000 but under $250,000 3.25
$250,000 but under $500,000 2.25
$500,000 but under $1 1.85
million
$1 million or more up to 0.75 1
12B-1 FEE TO DEALER 0.15%
REMAINING FUNDS CLASS A CLASS C
- ------------------------------------------------------
COMMISSION (%) --- 2.00
Investment under $100,000 4.00 ---
$100,000 but under $250,000 3.25 ---
$250,000 but under $500,000 2.25 ---
$500,000 but under $1 1.85 ---
million
$1 million or more up to 0.75 1 ---
12B-1 FEE TO DEALER 0.10% 0.652
A dealer commission of up to 0.25% may be paid on Class A NAV purchases by
certain trust companies and bank trust departments, eligible governmental
authorities, and broker-dealers or others on behalf of clients participating
in comprehensive fee programs.
1. During the first year after purchase, dealers may not be eligible to
receive the 12b-1 fee.
2. Dealers may be eligible to receive up to 0.15% during the first year after
purchase and may be eligible to receive the full 12b-1 fee starting in the
13th month.
[Insert graphic of question mark]QUESTIONS
If you have any questions about the funds or your account, you can write to
us at P.O. Box 997151, Sacramento, CA 95899-9983. You can also call us at one
of the following numbers. For your protection and to help ensure we provide
you with quality service, all calls may be monitored or recorded.
HOURS (PACIFIC TIME,
DEPARTMENT NAME TELEPHONE NUMBER MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Services 1-800/632-2301 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
(Saturday)
Fund Information 1-800/DIAL BEN 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
(1-800/342-5236) 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
(Saturday)
Retirement Plan
Services 1-800/527-2020 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Dealer Services 1-800/524-4040 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Institutional 1-800/321-8563 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Services
TDD (hearing 1-800/851-0637 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
impaired)
FOR MORE INFORMATION
You can learn more about each fund in the following documents:
ANNUAL/SEMIANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS
Includes a discussion of recent market conditions and fund strategies,
financial statements, detailed performance information, portfolio holdings,
and the auditor's report.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (SAI)
Contains more information about each fund, its investments and policies. It
is incorporated by reference (is legally a part of this prospectus).
For a free copy of the current annual/semiannual report or the SAI, please
contact your investment representative or call us at the number below.
FRANKLIN(R)TEMPLETON(R)
1-800/DIAL BEN(R) (1-800/342-5236)
TDD (Hearing Impaired) 1-800/851-0637
www.franklin-templeton.com
You can also obtain information about each fund by visiting the SEC's Public
Reference Room in Washington D.C. (phone 1-800/SEC-0330) or by sending your
request and a duplicating fee to the SEC's Public Reference Section,
Washington, DC 20549-6009. You can also visit the SEC's Internet site at
http://www.sec.gov.
Investment Company Act file #811-4149 TF1 P 07/99
Prospectus
Franklin Tax-Free Trust
Franklin Alabama Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A & C
Franklin Florida Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A & C
Franklin Georgia Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A & C
Franklin Kentucky Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
Franklin Louisiana Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A & C
Franklin Maryland Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A & C
Franklin Missouri Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A & C
Franklin North Carolina Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A & C
Franklin Texas Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A & C
Franklin Virginia Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A & C
CLASS A & C
INVESTMENT STRATEGY Tax-Free Income
JULY 1, 1999
[Insert Franklin Templeton Ben Head]
THE SEC HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE
ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL
OFFENSE.
CONTENTS
THE FUND
[Begin callout]
INFORMATION ABOUT EACH FUND YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE INVESTING
[End callout]
[insert page #] Goals and Strategies
[insert page #] Main Risks
[insert page #] Performance
[insert page #] Fees and Expenses
[insert page #] Management
[insert page #] Distributions and Taxes
[insert page #] Financial Highlights
YOUR ACCOUNT
[Begin callout]
INFORMATION ABOUT SALES CHARGES, ACCOUNT TRANSACTIONS AND SERVICES
[End callout]
[insert page #] Choosing a Share Class
[insert page #] Buying Shares
[insert page #] Investor Services
[insert page #] Selling Shares
[insert page #] Account Policies
[insert page #] Questions
FOR MORE INFORMATION
[Begin callout]
WHERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT EACH FUND
[End callout]
Back Cover
THE FUNDS
[Insert graphic of bullseye and arrows] GOALS AND STRATEGIES
GOALS Each fund's investment goal is to provide investors with as high a
level of income exempt from federal income taxes as is consistent with
prudent investing, while seeking preservation of shareholders' capital. Each
fund also tries to provide a maximum level of income exempt from personal
income taxes, if any, for resident shareholders of the fund's state.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENTS Each fund normally invests predominately in municipal
securities whose interest is free from federal income taxes, including the
federal alternative minimum tax, and the personal income taxes, if any, of
the fund's state. Although each fund tries to invest all of its assets in
tax-free securities, it is possible, although not anticipated, that up to 20%
of its assets may be in securities that pay taxable interest.
[Begin callout]
MUNICIPAL SECURITIES are issued by state and local governments, their
agencies and authorities, as well as by the District of Columbia and U.S.
territories and possessions, to borrow money for various public and private
projects. The issuer pays a fixed or variable rate of interest, and must
repay the amount borrowed (the "principal") at maturity.
[End callout]
Each fund only buys securities rated in the top four ratings by U.S.
nationally recognized rating services (or comparable unrated securities). The
manager selects securities that it believes will provide the best balance
between risk and return within a fund's range of allowable investments and
typically uses a buy and hold strategy. This means it holds securities in the
fund's portfolio for income purposes, rather than trading securities for
capital gains, although the manager may sell a security at any time if it
believes it could help the fund meet its goal.
Each fund may invest in variable and floating rate securities, whose interest
rates change either at specific intervals or whenever a benchmark rate
changes. While this feature helps protect against a decline in the security's
market price when interest rates go up, it lowers the fund's income when
interest rates fall.
Each fund also may invest in municipal lease obligations, which generally are
issued to finance the purchase of public property. The property is leased to
a state or local government and the lease payments are used to pay the
interest on the obligations. These differ from other municipal securities
because the money to make the lease payments must be set aside each year or
the lease can be cancelled without penalty. If this happens, investors who
own the obligations may not be paid.
TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS The manager may take a temporary defensive position
when it believes the securities trading markets or the economy are
experiencing excessive volatility or a prolonged general decline, or other
unusual or adverse conditions exist. Under these circumstances, a fund may be
unable to pursue its investment goals, because it may not invest or may
invest substantially less in tax-free securities or in municipal securities
of the fund's state.
[Insert graphic of chart with line going up and down] MAIN RISKS
INCOME Since each fund can only distribute what it earns, the fund's
distributions to shareholders may decline when interest rates fall.
CREDIT There is the possibility that an issuer will be unable to make
interest payments and repay principal. Changes in an issuer's financial
strength or in a security's credit rating may affect a security's value and,
thus, impact fund performance.
Many of each fund's portfolio securities may be supported by credit
enhancements, which may be provided by either U.S. or foreign entities. These
securities have the credit risk of the entity providing the credit support.
To the extent a fund holds insured securities, a change in the credit rating
of any one or more of the municipal bond insurers that insure securities in
the fund's portfolio may affect the value of the securities they insure and
the fund's share price. Credit support provided by a foreign entity may be
less certain because of the possibility of adverse foreign economic,
political or legal developments that may affect the ability of that entity to
meet its obligations.
[Begin callout]
Because interest rates and municipal security prices fluctuate, the amount of
the fund's distributions and the value of your investment in the fund will go
up and down. This means you could lose money over short or even extended
periods.
[End callout]
INTEREST RATE When interest rates go up, municipal security prices fall. The
opposite is also true: municipal security prices go up when interest rates
fall. In general, securities with longer maturities are more sensitive to
these price changes.
CALL There is the likelihood that a security will be prepaid (called) before
maturity. An issuer is more likely to call its securities when interest rates
are falling, because the issuer can issue new securities with lower interest
payments. If a security is called, the fund may have to replace it with a
lower-yielding security. At any time, each fund may have a large amount of
its assets invested in municipal securities subject to call risk, including
escrow-secured or defeased bonds. A call of some or all of these securities
may lower the fund's income and its distributions to shareholders.
MARKET A security's value may be reduced by market activity or the results of
supply and demand. This is a basic risk associated with all securities. When
there are more sellers than buyers, prices tend to fall. Likewise, when there
are more buyers than sellers, prices tend to go up.
Each fund may invest more than 25% of its assets in municipal securities that
finance similar types of projects, such as hospitals, housing, industrial
development, transportation or pollution control. A change that affects one
project, such as proposed legislation on the financing of the project, a
shortage of the materials needed for the project, or a declining need for the
project, would likely affect all similar projects, thereby increasing market
risk.
WHEN-ISSUED AND DELAYED DELIVERY TRANSACTIONS Municipal securities may be
issued on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis, where payment and delivery
take place at a future date. Since the market price of the security may
fluctuate during the time before payment and delivery, the fund assumes the
risk that the value of the security at delivery may be more or less than the
purchase price.
DIVERSIFICATION The Maryland Fund is a non-diversified fund. It may invest a
greater portion of its assets in the municipal securities of one issuer than
a diversified fund. This fund may be more sensitive to economic, business,
political or other changes affecting similar issuers or securities, which may
result in greater fluctuation in the value of its shares. The fund, however,
intends to meet certain tax diversification requirements. The other funds are
all diversified funds. Each fund may involve more risk than an investment in
a fund that does not focus on securities of a single state.
STATE Since each fund invests heavily in municipal securities of its state,
events in that state are likely to affect the fund's investments and its
performance. These events may include economic or political policy changes,
tax base erosion, state constitutional limits on tax increases, budget
deficits and other financial difficulties, and changes in the ratings
assigned to the state's municipal issuers.
A negative change in any one of these or other areas could affect the ability
of a state's municipal issuers to meet their obligations. It is important to
remember that economic, budget and other conditions within a state are
unpredictable and can change at any time.
U.S. TERRITORIES Each fund may invest up to 35% of its assets in municipal
securities issued by U.S. territories. As with state municipal securities,
events in any of these territories where a fund is invested may affect the
fund's investments and its performance.
YEAR 2000 When evaluating current and potential portfolio positions, Year
2000 is one of the factors the funds' manager considers.
Municipal issuers generally are not required to report on their Year 2000
readiness. This makes it more difficult for the manager to evaluate their
readiness. There have been reports, however, that many municipal issuers are
behind in their efforts to address the Year 2000 problem. The manager, of
course, cannot audit each issuer and its major suppliers to verify their Year
2000 readiness. The manager is making extensive efforts, however, to contact
the issuers of municipal securities held by the funds to try to assess their
Year 2000 readiness.
If an issuer in which the fund is invested is adversely affected by Year 2000
problems, it is possible that the issuer's ability to make timely interest
and principal payments also will be affected, at least temporarily. This may
affect both the amount and timing of the fund's distributions and the fund's
performance. It also is likely that the price of the issuer's securities will
be adversely affected. A decrease in the value of one or more of the fund's
portfolio holdings will have a similar impact on the fund's performance.
Please see page [#] for more information.
More detailed information about the fund, its policies (including temporary
investments), risks and municipal securities ratings can be found in the
fund's Statement of Additional Information (SAI).
[Begin callout]
Mutual fund shares are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed or
endorsed by, any bank, and are not federally insured by the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board, or any other agency of the
U.S. government. Mutual fund shares involve investment risks, including the
possible loss of principal.
[End callout]
[Insert graphic of a bull and a bear] PERFORMANCE
This bar chart and table show the volatility of each fund's returns, which is
one indicator of the risks of investing in a fund. The bar chart shows
changes in a fund's returns from year to year over the past 8 calendar years
for the Kentucky Fund and 10 calendar years for the remaining funds. The
tables show how each fund's average annual total returns compare to those of
a broad-based securities market index. Of course, past performance cannot
predict or guarantee future results.
ALABAMA FUND CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
9.85% 5.29% 12.40% 8.79% 12.24% -4.44% 15.28% 4.95% 9.03% 3.42%
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 6.25%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -4.36%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Alabama Tax-Free Income
Fund - Class A2 -0.96% 4.54% 7.08%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Alabama Tax-Free Income
Fund - Class C2 0.84% 6.15%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 1.00% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
May 1, 1994, Class A implemented a Rule 12b-1 plan, which affects subsequent
performance.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
FLORIDA FUND CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS1
[Insert bar graph]
9.82% 6.08% 12.56% 8.81% 12.01% -3.34% 14.67% 4.39% 8.11% 6.34%
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 5.93%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -3.84%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Florida Tax-Free Income
Fund - Class A2 1.79% 4.96% 7.37%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Florida Tax-Free Income
Fund - Class C2 3.66% 6.57%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.73% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
May 1, 1994, Class A implemented a Rule 12b-1 plan, which affects subsequent
performance.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
GEORGIA FUND CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS1
[Insert bar graph]
10.70% 5.65% 12.23% 8.82% 11.89% -3.74% 14.06% 4.66% 7.84% 5.63%
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q2 '89 6.23%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -4.26%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Georgia Tax-Free Income
Fund - Class A2 1.13% 4.62% 7.19%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Georgia Tax-Free Income
Fund - Class C2 3.01% 6.21%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.63% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
May 1, 1994, Class A implemented a Rule 12b-1 plan, which affects subsequent
performance.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
KENTUCKY FUND CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS1
[Insert bar graph]
10.48% 13.90% -8.52% 19.86% 4.26% 9.35% 6.09%
92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 8.79%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -7.34%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR 5 YEARS (10/21/91)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Kentucky Tax-Free
Income Fund - Class A2 1.56% 4.89% 7.03%
[] Index3 6.48% 6.23% 7.65%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1994, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.73% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
May 1, 1999, Class A implemented a Rule 12b-1 plan, which affects subsequent
performance.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
LOUISIANA FUND CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS1
[Insert bar graph]
10.68% 6.50% 12.23% 8.98% 11.13% -4.80% 14.59% 4.83% 8.79% 5.39%
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q2 '89 5.93%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -4.47%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Louisiana Tax-Free
Income Fund - Class A2 0.88% 4.66% 7.24%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Louisiana Tax-Free
Income Fund - Class C2 2.71% 6.57%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.81% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
May 1, 1994, Class A implemented a Rule 12b-1 plan, which affects subsequent
performance.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
MARYLAND FUND CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS1
[Insert bar graph]
9.78% 5.41% 12.06% 8.87% 12.15% -5.09% 17.27% 3.96% 8.54% 5.88%
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 7.25%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 4.78%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Maryland Tax-Free
Income Fund - Class A2 1.36% 4.96% 7.26%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Maryland Tax-Free
Income Fund - Class C2 3.20% 6.82%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.73% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
May 1, 1994, Class A implemented a Rule 12b-1 plan, which affects subsequent
performance.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
MISSOURI FUND CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS1
[Insert bar graph]
9.74% 6.66% 11.97% 9.02% 13.28% -5.09% 15.68% 4.70% 9.14% 5.76%
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 6.44%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -4.84%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Missouri Tax-Free
Income Fund - Class A2 1.27% 4.91% 7.48%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Missouri Tax-Free
Income Fund - Class C2 3.13% 6.76%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.88% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
May 1, 1994, Class A implemented a Rule 12b-1 plan, which affects subsequent
performance.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
NORTH CAROLINA FUND CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS1
[Insert bar graph]
10.29% 6.33% 11.50% 9.12% 11.67% -5.73% 16.12% 4.08% 8.91% 5.94%
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 7.28%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -4.97%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin North Carolina Tax-Free
Income Fund - Class A2 1.42% 4.71% 7.20%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin North Carolina Tax-Free
Income Fund - Class C2 3.48% 6.64%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.70% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
May 1, 1994, Class A implemented a Rule 12b-1 plan, which affects subsequent
performance.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
TEXAS FUND CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS1
[Insert bar graph]
10.51% 6.04% 12.14% 8.56% 11.59% -2.79% 13.32% 5.17% 9.10% 5.10%
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q2 '89 5.56%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -3.48%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Texas Tax-Free Income
Fund - Class A2 0.63% 4.92% 7.31%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Texas Tax-Free Income
Fund - Class C2 2.51% 6.78%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.80% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
May 1, 1994, Class A implemented a Rule 12b-1 plan, which affects subsequent
performance.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
VIRGINIA FUND CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS1
[Insert bar graph]
10.06% 5.91% 12.53% 8.95% 12.40% -4.64% 15.45% 4.17% 8.50% 5.83%
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 6.53%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -4.30%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1998
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Virginia Tax-Free
Income Fund - Class A2 1.30% 4.75% 7.32%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Virginia Tax-Free
Income Fund - Class C2 3.25% 6.55%
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.77% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
May 1, 1994, Class A implemented a Rule 12b-1 plan, which affects subsequent
performance.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
[Insert graphic of percentage sign] FEES AND EXPENSES
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and
hold shares of the fund.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
North
Alabama Florida Georgia Kentucky Louisiana Maryland Missouri Carolina Texas Virginia
Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS A1
Maximum
sales charge
(load) as a
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
percentage 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25%
of offering
price
Load imposed
on purchases 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25%
Maximum
deferred None None None None None None None None None None
sales charge
(load)3
Exchange fee None None None None None None None None None None
CLASS C1
Maximum
sales charge
(load) as a
percentage 1.99% 1.99% 1.99% -- 1.99% 1.99% 1.99% 1.99% 1.99% 1.99%
of offering
price
Load imposed
on purchases 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% -- 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% 1.00%
Maximum
deferred 0.99% 0.99% 0.99% -- 0.99% 0.99% 0.99% 0.99% 0.99% 0.99%
sales charge
(load)4
Exchange fee None None None -- None None None None None None
</TABLE>
Please see "Choosing a Share Class" on page [#] for an explanation of how and
when these sales charges apply.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES DEDUCTED FROM FUND ASSETS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
North
Alabama Florida Georgia Kentucky Louisiana Maryland Missouri Carolina Texas Virginia
Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS A1
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Management 0.56% 0.47% 0.58% 0.63% 0.59% 0.55% 0.53% 0.53% 0.59% 0.52%
fees
Distribution
and service
(12b-1) fees4 0.09% 0.09 0.10% 0.10% 0.09% 0.10% 0.10% 0.10% 0.09% 0.09%
Other 0.06% 0.05% 0.08% 0.08% 0.07% 0.09% 0.07% 0.07 0.09% 0.07%
expenses -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total annual
fund 0.71% 0.61% 0.76% 0.81% 5 0.75% 0.74% 0.70% 0.70% 0.77% 0.68%
operating =================================================================================
expenses
CLASS C1
Management 0.56% 0.47% 0.58% -- 0.59% 0.55% 0.53% 0.53% 0.59% 0.52%
fees
Distribution
and service
(12b-1) fees4 0.65% 0.65% 0.65% -- 0.65% 0.65% 0.65% 0.65% 0.65% 0.65%
Other 0.06% 0.05% 0.08% -- 0.07% 0.09% 0.07% 0.07% 0.09% 0.07%
expenses ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total annual
fund 1.27% 1.17% 1.31% -- 1.31% 1.29% 1.25% 1.25% 1.33% 1.24%
operating =================================================================================
expenses
</TABLE>
1. Before January 1, 1999, Class A shares were designated Class I and Class C
shares were designated Class II.
2. Except for investments of $1 million or more (see page [#]).
3. This is equivalent to a charge of 1% based on net asset value.
4. Because of the distribution and service (12b-1) fees, over the long term
you may indirectly pay more than the equivalent of the maximum permitted
initial sales charge.
5. For the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999, the manager had agreed in
advance to limit its management fees. With this reduction, management fees
were 0.24% and total annual fund operating expenses were 0.42%. The manager
may end this arrangement at any time upon notice to the fund's Board of
Trustees.
EXAMPLE
This example can help you compare the cost of investing in a fund with the
cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes you invest $10,000 for the periods shown and then sell
all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes your
investment has a 5% return each year and a fund's operating expenses remain
the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these
assumptions your costs would be:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
North
Alabama Florida Georgia Kentucky Louisiana Maryland Missouri Carolina Texas Virginia
Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund Fund
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS A
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1 Year 1 494 485 499 504 498 497 493 493 500 492
3 Years 642 612 658 673 654 651 639 639 661 633
5 Years 803 751 829 856 824 819 798 798 835 788
10 Years 1,270 1,155 1,327 1,384 1,316 1,304 1,259 1,259 1,339 1,236
CLASS C
1 Year 2 326 316 330 -- 330 328 324 324 332 323
3 Years 499 468 511 -- 511 505 493 493 517 489
5 Years 790 737 811 -- 811 800 779 779 821 774
10 Years 1,619 1,506 1,663 -- 1,663 1,641 1,596 1,596 1,685 1,585
</TABLE>
1. Assumes a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) will not apply.
2. For the same Class C investment, your costs would be $228 for the Alabama
Fund, $218 for the Florida Fund, $232 for the Georgia Fund, $232 for the
Louisiana Fund, $230 for the Maryland Fund, $226 for the Missouri Fund, $226
for the North Carolina Fund, $234 for the Texas Fund and $225 for the
Virginia Fund if you did not sell your shares at the end of the first year.
Your costs for the remaining periods would be the same.
[Insert graphic of briefcase] MANAGEMENT
Franklin Advisers, Inc. (Advisers), 777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA
94404, is the fund's investment manager. Together, Advisers and its
affiliates manage over $216 billion in assets.
The team responsible for each fund's management is:
THOMAS KENNY, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Mr. Kenny has been an analyst or portfolio manager of each fund since their
inception. He is the Director of Franklin's Municipal Bond Department. He
joined the Franklin Templeton Group in 1986.
JOHN POMEROY, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Mr. Pomeroy has been an analyst or portfolio manager for the Alabama, Georgia
and Maryland funds since 1989. He joined the Franklin Templeton Group in
1986.
STELLA WONG, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Ms. Wong has been an analyst or portfolio manager for the Maryland, North
Carolina and Virginia funds since their inception. She joined the Franklin
Templeton Group in 1986.
JOHN WILEY, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Mr. Wiley has been an analyst or portfolio manager for the Louisiana and
Texas funds since 1991. He joined the Franklin Templeton Group in 1989.
SHEILA AMOROSO, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Ms. Amoroso has been an analyst or portfolio manager for the Florida and
Missouri funds since their inception. She joined the Franklin Templeton Group
in 1986.
BEN BARBER, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Mr. Barber has been an analyst or portfolio manager for the Missouri and
Alabama funds since 1993. He joined the Franklin Templeton Group in 1991.
MARK ORSI, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Mr. Orsi has been an analyst or portfolio manager for the Kentucky, North
Carolina and Virginia funds since 1991. He joined the Franklin Templeton
Group in 1990.
FRANCISCO RIVERA, PORTFOLIO MANAGER OF ADVISERS
Mr. Rivera has been an analyst or portfolio manager of the Georgia, Kentucky,
Louisiana, and Texas funds since 1996. He joined the Franklin Templeton Group
in 1994.
Each fund pays the manager a fee for managing the fund's assets and making
its investment decisions. For the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999, each
fund paid, as a percentage of its average monthly net assets the following to
the manager:
Management
Fees (%)
Alabama Fund 0.56
Florida Fund 0.47
Georgia Fund 0.58
Kentucky Fund1 0.24
Louisiana Fund 0.59
Maryland Fund 0.55
Missouri Fund 0.53
North Carolina 0.53
Fund
Texas Fund 0.59
Virginia Fund 0.52
1. Management fees, before any advance waiver, totaled 0.63%. The manager may
end this arrangement at any time upon notice to the fund's Board of Trustees.
[Insert graphic of dollar
signs and stacks of coins] DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES; YEAR 2000 PROBLEM
INCOME AND CAPITAL GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS Each fund declares dividends daily
from its net investment income and pays them monthly on or about the 20th day
of the month. Your account may begin to receive dividends on the day after we
receive your investment and will continue to receive dividends through the
day we receive a request to sell your shares. Capital gains, if any, may be
distributed twice a year. The amount of these distributions will vary and
there is no guarantee the fund will pay dividends.
Please keep in mind that if you invest in the fund shortly before the fund
deducts a capital gain distribution from its net asset value, you will
receive some of your investment back in the form of a taxable distribution.
TAX CONSIDERATIONS Fund distributions will consist primarily of exempt-interest
dividends from interest earned on municipal securities. In general,
exempt-interest dividends are exempt from federal income tax. Each fund,
however, may invest a portion of its assets in securities that pay income
that is not tax-exempt. Fund distributions from such income are taxable to
you as ordinary income. Any capital gains a fund distributes are taxable to
you as long-term capital gains no matter how long you have owned your
shares. Distributions of ordinary income or capital gains are taxable
whether you reinvest your distributions in additional fund shares or receive
them in cash.
[Begin callout]
BACKUP WITHHOLDING
By law, a fund must withhold 31% of your taxable distributions and proceeds
if you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number (TIN) or
certify that your TIN is correct, or if the IRS instructs a fund to do so.
[End callout]
Every January, you will receive a statement that shows the tax status of
distributions you received for the previous year. Distributions declared in
December but paid in January are taxable as if they were paid in December.
When you sell your shares of a fund, you may have a capital gain or loss.
For tax purposes, an exchange of your fund shares for shares of a different
Franklin Templeton Fund is the same as a sale. The individual tax rate on
any gain from the sale or exchange of your shares depends on how long you
have held your shares.
Exempt-interest dividends are taken into account when determining the taxable
portion of your social security or railroad retirement benefits. A fund also
may invest a portion of its assets in private activity bonds. The income
from these bonds is a preference item when determining your alternative
minimum tax.
Exempt-interest dividends from interest earned on municipal securities of a
state, or its political subdivisions, generally are exempt from that state's
personal income tax. Most states, however, do not grant tax-free treatment
to interest from municipal securities of other states.
Distributions of ordinary income and capital gains, and gains from the sale
or exchange of your fund shares generally will be subject to state and local
income tax. Non-U.S. investors may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate
tax. You should consult your tax advisor about the federal, state, local or
foreign tax consequences of your investment in a fund.
YEAR 2000 PROBLEM The fund's business operations depend on a worldwide
network of computer systems that contain date fields, including securities
trading systems, securities transfer agent operations and stock market links.
Many of the systems currently use a two digit date field to represent the
date, and unless these systems are changed or modified, they may not be able
to distinguish the Year 1900 from the Year 2000 (commonly referred to as the
Year 2000 problem). In addition, the fact that the Year 2000 is a leap year
may create difficulties for some systems.
When the Year 2000 arrives, the fund's operations could be adversely affected
if the computer systems used by the manager, its service providers and other
third parties it does business with are not Year 2000 ready. For example, the
fund's portfolio and operational areas could be impacted, including
securities trade processing, interest and dividend payments, securities
pricing, shareholder account services, reporting, custody functions and
others.
The fund's manager and its affiliated service providers are making a
concerted effort to take steps they believe are reasonably designed to
address their Year 2000 problems. Of course, the fund's ability to reduce the
effects of the Year 2000 problem is also very much dependent upon the efforts
of third parties over which the fund and its manager may have no control.
[Insert graphic of a dollar bill] FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
This table presents each fund's financial performance for the past five
years. This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.
ALABAMA FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.98 11.73 11.73 11.31 11.80
------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .62 .64 .65 .66 .66
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) (.25) .36 .01 .42 (.50)
------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .37 1.00 .66 1.08 .16
------------------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.62) 2 (.65) (.66) (.66) (.65)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.05) (.10) -- -- --
------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.67) (.75) (.66) (.66) (.65)
------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 11.68 11.98 11.73 11.73 11.31
================================================
Total return (%)3 3.21 8.79 5.84 9.74 1.54
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 238,670 216,982 193,433 185,981 170,051
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .71 .72 .71 .72 .72
Net investment income 5.23 5.39 5.62 5.69 5.88
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 8.67 10.44 15.47 12.39 19.85
CLASS C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.04 11.78 11.77 11.36
--------------------------------------
Net investment income .56 .58 .59 .49
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) (.25) .36 .01 .41
--------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .31 .94 .60 .90
Dividends from net
investment income (.56)2 (.58) (.59) (.49)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.05) (.10) -- --
--------------------------------------
Total distributions (.61) (.68) (.59) (.49)
--------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 11.74 12.04 11.78 11.77
======================================
Total return (%)3 2.62 8.23 5.28 8.01
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 14,895 9,469 5,683 1,662
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.27 1.29 1.28 1.29 4
Net investment income 4.67 4.80 5.05 5.09 4
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 8.67 10.44 15.47 12.39
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class
C.
2. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.006 and $.004 for Class A and C, respectively.
3. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
4. Annualized.
FLORIDA FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.87 11.59 11.69 11.35 11.77
------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .62 .64 .67 .69 .69
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .05 .30 (.08) .34 (.44)
------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .67 .94 .59 1.03 .25
------------------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.62) 2 (.65) (.69) (.69) (.67)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.01) (.01) -- -- --
------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.63) (.66) (.69) (.69) (.67)
------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 11.91 11.87 11.59 11.69 11.35
===============================================
Total return (%)3 5.75 8.37 5.20 9.28 2.36
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1 million) 1,786 1,650 1,458 1,354 1,265
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .61 .61 .60 .60 .59
Net investment income 5.19 5.45 5.78 5.93 6.15
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 7.66 5.60 12.00 11.78 14.34
CLASS C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.96 11.67 11.76 11.37
--------------------------------------
Net investment income .55 .60 .60 .52
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .06 .29 (.07) .38
--------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .61 .89 .53 .90
Dividends from net
investment income (.55) 4 (.59) (.62) (.51)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.01) (.01) -- --
--------------------------------------
Total distributions (.56) (.60) (.62) (.51)
--------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 12.01 11.96 11.67 11.76
======================================
Total return (%)3 5.21 7.80 4.65 8.05
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 82,596 56,027 23,556 7,644
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.17 1.17 1.17 1.18 4
Net investment income 4.63 4.88 5.17 5.33
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 7.66 5.60 12.00 11.78
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class
C.
2. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.0005 and $.0004 for Class A and C, respectively.
3. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
4. Annualized.
GEORGIA FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.12 11.86 11.88 11.54 12.00
------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .61 .63 .65 .66 .66
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .01 .27 (.02) .34 (.46)
------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .62 .90 .63 1.00 .20
------------------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.61) 2 (.64) 3 (.65) (.66) (.66)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.06) -- -- -- --
------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.67) (.64) (.65) (.66) (.66)
------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 12.07 12.12 11.86 11.88 11.54
================================================
Total return (%)4 5.22 7.75 5.47 8.90 1.87
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 164,669 149,642 139,903 130,380 116,771
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .76 .76 .75 .77 .76
Net investment income 5.00 5.28 5.49 5.58 5.76
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 12.84 14.77 17.47 10.98 36.17
CLASS C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.19 11.92 11.92 11.57
--------------------------------------
Net investment income .54 .57 .58 .50
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .02 .27 (.01) .34
--------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .56 .84 .57 .84
Dividends from net
investment income (.54) 2 (.57) (.57) (.49)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.06) -- -- --
--------------------------------------
Total distributions (.60) (.57) (.57) (.49)
--------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 12.15 12.19 11.92 11.92
======================================
Total return (%)4 4.70 7.19 4.97 7.40
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 17,277 9,107 4,484 1,335
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.31 1.32 1.32 1.34 5
Net investment income 4.45 4.72 4.87 5.04 5
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 12.84 14.77 17.47 10.98
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class
C.
2. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.004 and $.003 for Class A and C, respectively.
3. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.001.
4. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
5. Annualized.
KENTUCKY FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.45 11.05 11.04 10.54 11.18
------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .59 .61 .61 .62 .61
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .03 .40 .01 .50 (.62)
------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .62 1.01 .62 1.12 (.01)
------------------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.60) 1 (.61) (.61) (.62) (.63)
------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 11.47 11.45 11.05 11.04 10.54
===============================================
Total return (%)2 5.51 9.38 5.86 10.73 .11
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 64,516 54,211 44,289 38,991 32,831
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .42 .35 .34 .33 .29
Expenses excluding waiver
and payments by affiliate .81 .81 .81 .82 .80
Net investment income 5.12 5.40 5.63 5.65 5.94
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 10.49 26.61 24.81 31.89 32.92
1. Includes distribution in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.004.
2. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
LOUISIANA FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 19961 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.61 11.32 11.32 11.03 11.56
------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .60 .63 .65 .66 .66
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) (.01) .30 -- .28 (.55)
------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .59 .93 .65 .94 .11
------------------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.61) 2 (.64) (.65) (.65) (.64)
------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 11.59 11.61 11.32 11.32 11.03
===============================================
Total return (%)3 5.23 8.46 5.94 8.75 1.14
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 158,099 134,922 112,981 107,461 104,980
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .75 .76 .76 .78 .75
Net investment income 5.14 5.50 5.76 5.89 5.98
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 14.99 15.26 13.68 5.23 32.28
CLASS C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.68 11.37 11.37 11.01
--------------------------------------
Net investment income .54 .57 .58 .49
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) (.01) .32 -- .35
--------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .53 .89 .58 .84
Dividends from net
investment income (.55) 2 (.58) (.58) (.48)
--------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 11.66 11.68 11.37 11.37
======================================
Total return (%)3 4.61 8.02 5.27 7.76
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 9,982 4,469 3,004 1,438
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.31 1.32 1.33 1.35 4
Net investment income
(loss) 4.58 4.95 5.29 5.27 4
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 14.99 15.26 13.68 5.23
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class
C.
2. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.0006 and $.0004 for Class A and C, respectively.
3. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
4. Annualized.
MARYLAND FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.64 11.33 11.38 10.92 11.36
------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .58 .59 .61 .62 .63
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .06 .32 (.03) .47 (.45)
------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .64 .91 .58 1.09 .18
------------------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.58) 2 (.60) 3 (.63) (.63) (.62)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.04) -- -- -- --
------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.62) (.60) (.63) (.63) (.62)
------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 11.66 11.64 11.33 11.38 10.92
================================================
Total return (%)4 5.64 8.27 5.24 10.18 1.78
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 253,014 213,005 185,234 175,078 153,145
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .74 .74 .73 .74 .73
Net investment income 4.91 5.20 5.42 5.56 5.86
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 6.02 3.19 12.71 8.11 20.30
CLASS C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.72 11.40 11.44 10.93
--------------------------------------
Net investment income .51 .54 .55 .47
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .07 .31 (.03) .51
--------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .58 .85 .52 .98
--------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.51) 2 (.53) (.56) (.47)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.04) -- -- --
--------------------------------------
Total distributions (.55) (.53) (.56) (.47)
--------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 11.75 11.72 11.40 11.44
======================================
Total return (%)4 5.11 7.70 4.68 9.06
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 16,826 10,515 5,084 913
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.29 1.30 1.27 1.315
Net investment income 4.35 4.63 4.78 4.955
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 6.02 3.19 12.71 8.11
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class
C.
2. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.004 and $.003 for Class A and C, respectively.
3. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.005.
4. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
5. Annualized.
MISSOURI FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.23 11.83 11.94 11.44 11.94
------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .61 .64 .65 .65 .65
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) -- .44 (.07) .49 (.50)
------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .61 1.08 .58 1.14 .15
------------------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.62) (.64) (.65) (.64) (.65)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.03) (.04) (.04) -- --
------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.65) (.68) (.69) (.64) (.65)
------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 12.19 12.23 11.83 11.94 11.44
===============================================
Total return (%) 2 5.12 9.43 5.06 10.23 1.44
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 386,948 308,045 269,564 247,522 227,442
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .70 .71 .70 .71 .70
Net investment income 4.99 5.32 5.56 5.58 5.75
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 15.21 14.30 21.81 18.27 19.84
CLASS C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.27 11.85 11.97 11.47
--------------------------------------
Net investment income .54 .58 .57 .48
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .01 .45 (.07) .50
--------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .55 1.03 .50 .98
Dividends from net
investment income (.55) (.57) (.58) (.48)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.03) (.04) (.04) --
--------------------------------------
Total distributions (.58) (.61) (.62) (.48)
--------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 12.24 12.27 11.85 11.97
======================================
Total return (%) 2 4.58 8.96 4.32 8.66
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 20,396 10,045 4,295 1,325
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.25 1.27 1.27 1.27 3
Net investment income 4.44 4.75 4.92 4.94 3
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 15.21 14.30 21.81 18.27
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class
C.
2. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
3. Annualized.
NORTH CAROLINA FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 19961 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.11 11.73 11.75 11.37 11.92
------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .60 .62 .64 .64 .65
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .06 .38 (.03) .39 (.55)
------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .66 1.00 .61 1.03 .10
------------------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.61) (.62) (.63) (.65) 2 (.65)
------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 12.16 12.11 11.73 11.75 11.37
===============================================
Total return (%)3 5.54 8.78 5.38 9.28 1.06
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 349,419 297,406 260,979 247,031 216,263
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .70 .70 .70 .71 .70
Net investment income 4.95 5.24 5.47 5.52 5.75
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 5.44 9.95 9.98 25.19 25.05
CLASS C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.18 11.79 11.80 11.41
--------------------------------------
Net investment income .54 .56 .57 .49
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .06 .39 (.02) .38
--------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .60 .95 .55 .87
Dividends from net
investment income (.54) (.56) (.56) (.48)
--------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 12.24 12.18 11.79 11.80
======================================
Total return (%)3 5.02 8.22 4.83 7.77
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 38,171 20,043 9,607 2,430
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.25 1.26 1.26 1.28 4
Net investment income 4.40 4.69 4.85 4.90 4
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 5.44 9.95 9.98 25.19
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class
C.
2. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.001.
3. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
4. Annualized.
TEXAS FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 19961 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.68 11.37 11.58 11.25 11.72
------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .60 .62 .66 .67 .68
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) (.05) .36 -- .34 (.49)
------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .55 .98 .66 1.01 .19
------------------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.60) 2 (.63) (.67) (.68) (.66)
In excess of net investment
income -- (.01) -- -- --
Distributions from net
realized gains (.21) (.03) (.20) -- --
------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.81) (.67) (.87) (.68) (.66)
------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 11.42 11.68 11.37 11.58 11.25
================================================
Total return (%)3 4.86 8.91 5.91 9.15 1.80
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 127,739 130,578 126,612 129,702 130,684
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .77 .76 .75 .76 .73
Net investment income 5.17 5.44 5.70 5.86 6.05
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 25.26 34.52 35.57 18.38 6.36
CLASS C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.81 11.49 11.68 11.27
--------------------------------------
Net investment income .53 .58 .60 .51
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) (.03) .35 .02 .40
--------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .50 .93 .62 .91
Dividends from net
investment income (.53)2 (.58) 4 (.61) (.50)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.21) (.03) (.20) --
--------------------------------------
Total distributions (.74) (.61) (.81) (.50)
--------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 11.57 11.81 11.49 11.68
======================================
Total return (%)3 4.40 8.31 5.48 8.23
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 5,229 2,076 740 79
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.33 1.33 1.32 1.335
Net investment income 4.61 4.79 5.03 5.235
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 25.26 34.52 35.57 18.38
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class
C.
2. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.0005 and $.0003 for Class A and C, respectively.
3. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
4. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.001.
5. Annualized.
VIRGINIA FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 19961 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.88 11.65 11.72 11.33 11.82
------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .60 .62 .65 .66 .66
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .03 .35 (.07) .38 (.50)
------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .63 .97 .58 1.04 .16
------------------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.60) 2 (.64) (.64) (.65) (.65)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.03) (.10) (.01) -- --
------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.63) (.74) (.65) (.65) (.65)
------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 11.88 11.88 11.65 11.72 11.33
================================================
Total return (%)3 5.40 8.53 5.15 9.41 1.56
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 379,670 332,199 287,172 271,396 255,965
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .68 .69 .69 .69 .69
Net investment income 4.98 5.29 5.56 5.66 5.86
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 8.90 12.90 19.25 12.72 21.73
CLASS C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.95 11.71 11.77 11.35
--------------------------------------
Net investment income .53 .57 .58 .49
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .03 .34 (.05) .41
--------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .56 .91 .53 .90
Dividends from net
investment income (.53) 2 (.57) (.58) (.48)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.03) (.10) (.01) --
--------------------------------------
Total distributions (.56) (.67) (.59) (.48)
--------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 11.95 11.95 11.71 11.77
======================================
Total return (%)3 4.78 7.97 4.61 8.07
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 22,796 13,186 6,674 2,050
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.24 1.25 1.25 1.264
Net investment income 4.42 4.72 4.94 5.064
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 8.90 12.90 19.25 12.72
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class
C.
2. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.0005 and $.0004 for Class A and C, respectively.
3. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
4. Annualized.
YOUR ACCOUNT
[Insert graphic of pencil marking an "X"] CHOOSING A SHARE CLASS
Each class has its own sales charge and expense structure, allowing you to
choose the class that best meets your situation. Your investment
representative can help you decide.
CLASS A CLASS C
- -------------------------------------------------
o Initial sales o Initial sales
charge of 4.25% or charge of 1%
less
o Deferred sales o Deferred sales
charge of 1% on charge of 1% on
purchases of $1 shares you sell
million or more sold within 18 months
within 12 months
o Lower annual o Higher annual
expenses than Class expenses than Class
C due to lower A due to higher
distribution fees distribution fees.
BEFORE JANUARY 1, 1999, CLASS A SHARES WERE DESIGNATED CLASS I AND
CLASS C SHARES WERE DESIGNATED CLASS II.
SALES CHARGES - CLASS A
THE SALES CHARGE
MAKES UP THIS % OF WHICH EQUALS THIS % OF
WHEN YOU INVEST THIS AMOUNT THE OFFERING PRICE YOUR NET INVESTMENT
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under $100,000 4.25 4.44
$100,000 but under $250,000 3.50 3.63
$250,000 but under $500,000 2.50 2.56
$500,000 but under $1 million 2.00 2.04
INVESTMENTS OF $1 MILLION OR MORE If you invest $1 million or more, either
as a lump sum or through our cumulative quantity discount or letter of intent
programs (see page [#]), you can buy Class A shares without an initial sales
charge. However, there is a 1% contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) on any
shares you sell within 12 months of purchase. The way we calculate the CDSC
is the same for each class (please see page [#]).
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES Class A has a distribution plan,
sometimes known as a Rule 12b-1 plan, that allows the fund to pay
distribution fees of up to 0.10% per year to those who sell and distribute
Class A shares and provide other services to shareholders. Because these fees
are paid out of Class A's assets on an on-going basis, over time these fees
will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying
other types of sales charges.
SALES CHARGES - CLASS C
THE SALES CHARGE
MAKES UP THIS % OF WHICH EQUALS THIS % OF
WHEN YOU INVEST THIS AMOUNT THE OFFERING PRICE YOUR NET INVESTMENT
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under $1 million 1.00 1.01
WE PLACE ANY INVESTMENT OF $1 MILLION OR MORE IN CLASS A SHARES, SINCE THERE
IS NO INITIAL SALES CHARGE AND CLASS A'S ANNUAL EXPENSES ARE LOWER.
CDSC There is a 1% contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) on any Class C
shares you sell within 18 months of purchase. The way we calculate the CDSC
is the same for each class (please 972986170see below).
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES Class C has a distribution plan,
sometimes known as a Rule 12b-1 plan, that allows the fund to pay
distribution and other fees of up to 0.65% per year for the sale of Class C
shares and for services provided to shareholders. Because these fees are paid
out of Class C's assets on an on-going basis, over time these fees will
increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other
types of sales charges.
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE (CDSC) - CLASS A & C
The CDSC for each class is based on the current value of the shares being
sold or their net asset value when purchased, whichever is less. There is no
CDSC on shares you acquire by reinvesting your dividends or capital gains
distributions.
[Begin callout]
The HOLDING PERIOD FOR THE CDSC begins on the day you buy your shares. Your
shares will age one month on that same date the next month and each following
month.
For example, if you buy shares on the 18th of the month, they will age one
month on the 18th day of the next month and each following month.
[End callout]
To keep your CDSC as low as possible, each time you place a request to sell
shares we will first sell any shares in your account that are not subject to
a CDSC. If there are not enough of these to meet your request, we will sell
the shares in the order they were purchased. We will use this same method if
you exchange your shares into another Franklin Templeton Fund (please see
page [#] for exchange information).
SALES CHARGE REDUCTIONS AND WAIVERS
If you qualify for any of the sales charge reductions or waivers below,
please let us know at the time you make your investment to help ensure you
receive the lower sales charge.
QUANTITY DISCOUNTS We offer several ways for you to combine your purchases
in the Franklin Templeton Funds to take advantage of the lower sales charges
for large purchases of Class A shares.
[Begin callout]
The FRANKLIN TEMPLETON FUNDS include all of the Franklin Templeton U.S.
registered mutual funds, except Franklin Valuemark Funds, Templeton Capital
Accumulator Fund, Inc., and Templeton Variable Products Series Fund.
[End callout]
o CUMULATIVE QUANTITY DISCOUNT - lets you combine all of your shares in the
Franklin Templeton Funds for purposes of calculating the sales charge. You
also may combine the shares of your spouse, and your children or
grandchildren, if they are under the age of 21. Certain company and
retirement plan accounts also may be included.
o LETTER OF INTENT (LOI) - expresses your intent to buy a stated dollar
amount of shares over a 13-month period and lets you receive the same
sales charge as if all shares had been purchased at one time. We will
reserve a portion of your shares to cover any additional sales charge that
may apply if you do not buy the amount stated in your LOI.
TO SIGN UP FOR THESE PROGRAMS, COMPLETE THE APPROPRIATE SECTION OF YOUR
ACCOUNT APPLICATION.
REINSTATEMENT PRIVILEGE If you sell shares of a Franklin Templeton Fund, you
may reinvest some or all of the proceeds within 365 days without an initial
sales charge. The proceeds must be reinvested within the same share class,
except proceeds from the sale of Class B shares will be reinvested in Class A
shares.
If you paid a CDSC when you sold your Class A or C shares, we will credit
your account with the amount of the CDSC paid but a new CDSC will apply. For
Class B shares reinvested in Class A, a new CDSC will not apply, although
your account will not be credited with the amount of any CDSC paid when you
sold your Class B shares.
Proceeds immediately placed in a Franklin Bank Certificate of Deposit (CD)
also may be reinvested without an initial sales charge if you reinvest them
within 365 days from the date the CD matures, including any rollover.
This privilege does not apply to shares you buy and sell under our exchange
program. Shares purchased with the proceeds from a money fund may be subject
to a sales charge.
SALES CHARGE WAIVERS Class A shares may be purchased without an initial
sales charge or CDSC by various individuals and institutions or by investors
who reinvest certain distributions and proceeds within 365 days. The CDSC for
each class also may be waived for certain redemptions and distribuitons. If
you would like information about available sales charge waivers, call your
investment representative or call Shareholder Services at 1-800/632-2301. A
list of available sales charge waivers also may be found in the Statement of
Additional Information (SAI).
GROUP INVESTMENT PROGRAM Allows established groups of 11 or more investors
to invest as a group. For sales charge purposes, the group's investments are
added together. There are certain other requirements and the group must have
a purpose other than buying fund shares at a discount.
[Insert graphic of a paper with lines
and someone writing] BUYING SHARES
MINIMUM INVESTMENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
INITIAL ADDITIONAL
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regular accounts $1,000 $50
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
UGMA/UTMA accounts $100 $50
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Broker-dealer sponsored wrap account
programs $250 $50
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Full-time employees, officers, trustees and
directors of Franklin Templeton entities,
and their immediate family members
$100 $50
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
ACCOUNT APPLICATION If you are opening a new account, please complete and
sign the enclosed account application. Make sure you indicate the share class
you have chosen. If you do not indicate a class, we will place your purchase
in Class A shares. To save time, you can sign up now for services you may
want on your account by completing the appropriate sections of the
application (see the next page).
BUYING SHARES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPENING AN ACCOUNT ADDING TO AN ACCOUNT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of
hands shaking]
Contact your investment Contact your investment
THROUGH YOUR representative representative
INVESTMENT
REPRESENTATIVE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Make your check payable to Make your check payable to
[Insert graphic of the fund. the fund. Include your
envelope] account number on the check.
Mail the check and your
BY MAIL signed application to Fill out the deposit slip
Investor Services. from your account statement.
If you do not have a slip,
include a note with your
name, the fund name, and
your account number.
Mail the check and deposit
slip or note to Investor
Services.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of Call to receive a wire Call to receive a wire
three lightning control number and wire control number and wire
bolts] instructions. instructions.
Wire the funds and mail your To make a same day wire
signed application to investment, please call us
BY WIRE Investor Services. Please by 1:00 p.m. pacific time
include the wire control and make sure your wire
1-800/632-2301 number or your new account arrives by 3:00 p.m.
(or 1-650/312-2000 number on the application.
collect)
To make a same day wire
investment, please call us
by 1:00 p.m. pacific time
and make sure your wire
arrives by 3:00 p.m.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of Call Shareholder Services at Call Shareholder Services at
two arrows pointing the number below, or send the number below or our
in opposite signed written instructions. automated TeleFACTS system,
directions] The TeleFACTS system cannot or send signed written
be used to open a new instructions.
BY EXCHANGE account.
(Please see page # for (Please see page # for
TeleFACTS(R) information on exchanges.) information on exchanges.)
1-800/247-1753
(around-the-clock
access)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON INVESTOR SERVICES P.O. BOX 997151,
SACRAMENTO, CA 95899-9983
CALL TOLL-FREE: 1-800/632-2301
(MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 5:30 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M., PACIFIC TIME
SATURDAY 6:30 A.M. TO 2:30 P.M., PACIFIC TIME)
[Insert graphic of person with a headset] INVESTOR SERVICES
AUTOMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN This plan offers a convenient way for you to
invest in the fund by automatically transferring money from your checking or
savings account each month to buy shares. The minimum investment to open an
account with an automatic investment plan is $50. To sign up, complete the
appropriate section of your account application.
AUTOMATIC PAYROLL DEDUCTION You may be able to invest automatically in Class
A shares of the fund by transferring money from your paycheck to the fund by
electronic funds transfer. If you are interested, indicate on your
application that you would like to receive an Automatic Payroll Deduction
Program kit.
DISTRIBUTION OPTIONS You may reinvest distributions you receive from the
fund in an existing account in the same share class* of the fund or another
Franklin Templeton Fund. Initial sales charges and CDSCs will not apply if
you reinvest your distributions within 365 days. You can also have your
distributions deposited in a bank account, or mailed by check. Deposits to a
bank account may be made by electronic funds transfer.
TELEFACTS(R) Our TeleFACTS system offers around-the-clock access to
information about your account or any Franklin Templeton Fund. This service
is available from touch-tone phones at 1-800/247-1753. For a free TeleFACTS
brochure, call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
TELEPHONE PRIVILEGES You will automatically receive telephone privileges
when you open your account, allowing you and your investment representative
to sell or exchange your shares and make certain other changes to your
account by phone.
For accounts with more than one registered owner, telephone privileges also
allow the fund to accept written instructions signed by only one owner for
transactions and account changes that could otherwise be made by phone. For
all other transactions and changes, all registered owners must sign the
instructions.
As long as we take certain measures to verify telephone requests, we will not
be responsible for any losses that may occur from unauthorized requests. Of
course, you can decline telephone exchange or redemption privileges on your
account application.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE You can exchange shares between most Franklin Templeton
Funds within the same class*, generally without paying any additional sales
charges. If you exchange shares held for less than six months, however, you
may be charged the difference between the initial sales charge of the two
funds if the difference is more than 0.25%. If you exchange shares from a
money fund, a sales charge may apply no matter how long you have held the
shares.
[Begin callout]
An EXCHANGE is really two transactions: a sale of one fund and the purchase
of another. In general, the same policies that apply to purchases and sales
apply to exchanges, including minimum investment amounts. Exchanges also have
the same tax consequences as ordinary sales and purchases.
[End callout]
Generally exchanges may only be made between identically registered accounts,
unless you send written instructions with a signature guarantee. Any CDSC
will continue to be calculated from the date of your initial investment and
will not be charged at the time of the exchange. The purchase price for
determining a CDSC on exchanged shares will be the price you paid for the
original shares. If you exchange shares subject to a CDSC into a Class A
money fund, the time your shares are held in the money fund will not count
towards the CDSC holding period.
Frequent exchanges can interfere with fund management or operations and drive
up costs for all shareholders. To protect shareholders, there are limits on
the number and amount of exchanges you may make (please see "Market Timers"
on page [#]).
*Certain Class Z shareholders of Franklin Mutual Series Fund Inc. may
exchange into Class A without any sales charge. Advisor Class shareholders of
another Franklin Templeton Fund also may exchange into Class A without any
sales charge.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN This plan allows you to automatically sell your
shares and receive regular payments from your account. A CDSC may apply to
withdrawals that exceed certain amounts. Certain terms and minimums apply. To
sign up, complete the appropriate section of your application.
[Insert graphic of a certificate] SELLING SHARES
You can sell your shares at any time.
SELLING SHARES IN WRITING Requests to sell $100,000 or less can generally be
made over the phone or with a simple letter. Sometimes, however, to protect
you and the fund we will need written instructions signed by all registered
owners, with a signature guarantee for each owner, if:
[Begin callout]
A SIGNATURE GUARANTEE helps protect your account against fraud.
You can obtain a signature guarantee at most banks and securities dealers.
A notary public CANNOT provide a signature guarantee.
[End callout]
o you are selling more than $100,000 worth of shares
o you want your proceeds paid to someone who is not a registered owner
o you want to send your proceeds somewhere other than the address of
record, or preauthorized bank or brokerage firm account
We also may require a signature guarantee on instructions we receive from an
agent, not the registered owners, or when we believe it would protect the
fund against potential claims based on the instructions received.
SELLING RECENTLY PURCHASED SHARES If you sell shares recently purchased with
a check or draft, we may delay sending you the proceeds until your check or
draft has cleared, which may take seven business days or more. A certified or
cashier's check may clear in less time.
REDEMPTION PROCEEDS Your redemption check will be sent within seven days
after we receive your request in proper form. We are not able to receive or
pay out cash in the form of currency. Redemption proceeds may be delayed if
we have not yet received your signed account application.
SELLING SHARES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
TO SELL SOME OR ALL OF YOUR SHARES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of
hands shaking]
Contact your investment representative
THROUGH YOUR INVESTMENT
REPRESENTATIVE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of Send written instructions and endorsed share
envelope] certificates (if you hold share certificates)
to Investor Services. Corporate, partnership
BY MAIL or trust accounts may need to send additional
documents.
Specify the fund, the account number and the
dollar value or number of shares you wish to
sell. Be sure to include all necessary
signatures and any additional documents, as
well as signature guarantees if required.
A check will be mailed to the name(s) and
address on the account, or otherwise according
to your written instructions.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of As long as your transaction is for $100,000 or
phone] less, you do not hold share certificates and
you have not changed your address by phone
BY PHONE within the last 15 days, you can sell your
shares by phone.
1-800/632-2301
A check will be mailed to the name(s) and
address on the account. Written instructions,
with a signature guarantee, are required to
send the check to another address or to make
it payable to another person.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of You can call or write to have redemption
three lightning bolts] proceeds of $1,000 or more wired to a bank or
escrow account. See the policies above for
selling shares by mail or phone.
Before requesting a bank wire, please make
BY WIRE sure we have your bank account information on
file. If we do not have this information, you
will need to send written instructions with
your bank's name and address, your bank
account number, the ABA routing number, and a
signature guarantee.
Requests received in proper form by 1:00 p.m.
pacific time will be wired the next business
day.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of two Obtain a current prospectus for the fund you
arrows pointing in are considering.
opposite directions]
Call Shareholder Services at the number below
BY EXCHANGE or our automated TeleFACTS system, or send
signed written instructions. See the policies
TeleFACTS(R) above for selling shares by mail or phone.
1-800/247-1753
(around-the-clock If you hold share certificates, you will need
access) to return them to the fund before your
exchange can be processed.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON INVESTOR SERVICES P.O. BOX 997151,
SACRAMENTO, CA 95899-9983
CALL TOLL-FREE: 1-800/632-2301
(MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 5:30 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M., PACIFIC TIME
SATURDAY 6:30 A.M. TO 2:30 P.M., PACIFIC TIME)
[Insert graphic of paper and pen] ACCOUNT POLICIES
CALCULATING SHARE PRICE The fund calculates the net asset value per share
(NAV) each business day at the close of trading on the New York Stock
Exchange (normally 1:00 p.m. pacific time). Each class's NAV is calculated
by dividing its net assets by the number of its shares outstanding.
[Begin callout]
When you buy shares, you pay the offering price. The offering price is the
NAV plus any applicable sales charge.
When you sell shares, you receive the NAV minus any applicable contingent
deferred sales charge (CDSC).
[End callout]
The fund's assets are generally valued at their market value. If market
prices are unavailable, or if an event occurs after the close of the trading
market that materially affects the values, assets may be valued at their fair
value.
Requests to buy and sell shares are processed at the NAV next calculated
after we receive your request in proper form.
ACCOUNTS WITH LOW BALANCES If the value of your account falls below $250
($50 for employee and UGMA/UTMA accounts) because you sell some of your
shares, we may mail you a notice asking you to bring the account back up to
its applicable minimum investment amount. If you choose not to do so within
30 days, we may close your account and mail the proceeds to the address of
record. You will not be charged a CDSC if your account is closed for this
reason.
STATEMENTS AND REPORTS You will receive confirmations and account statements
that show your account transactions. You also will receive the fund's
financial reports every six months. To reduce fund expenses, we try to
identify related shareholders in a household and send only one copy of the
financial reports. If you need additional copies, please call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
If there is a dealer or other investment representative of record on your
account, he or she also will receive confirmations, account statements and
other information about your account directly from the fund.
STREET OR NOMINEE ACCOUNTS You may transfer your shares from the street or
nominee name account of one dealer to another, as long as both dealers have
an agreement with Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. We will process the
transfer after we receive authorization in proper form from your delivering
securities dealer.
JOINT ACCOUNTS Unless you specify a different registration, accounts with
two or more owners are registered as "joint tenants with rights of
survivorship" (shown as "Jt Ten" on your account statement). To make any
ownership changes to a joint account, all owners must agree in writing,
regardless of the law in your state.
MARKET TIMERS The fund does not allow investments by market timers. You will
be considered a market timer if you have (i) requested an exchange out of the
fund within two weeks of an earlier exchange request, or (ii) exchanged
shares out of the fund more than twice in a calendar quarter, or (iii)
exchanged shares equal to at least $5 million, or more than 1% of the fund's
net assets, or (iv) otherwise seem to follow a timing pattern. Shares under
common ownership or control are combined for these limits.
ADDITIONAL POLICIES Please note that the fund maintains additional policies
and reserves certain rights, including:
o The fund may refuse any order to buy shares, including any purchase under
the exchange privilege.
o At any time, the fund may change its investment minimums or waive or
lower its minimums for certain purchases.
o The fund may modify or discontinue the exchange privilege on 60 days'
notice.
o You may only buy shares of a fund eligible for sale in your state or
jurisdiction.
o In unusual circumstances, we may temporarily suspend redemptions, or
postpone the payment of proceeds, as allowed by federal securities laws.
o For redemptions over a certain amount, the fund reserves the right to
make payments in securities or other assets of the fund, in the case of an
emergency or if the payment by check or wire would be harmful to existing
shareholders.
o To permit investors to obtain the current price, dealers are responsible
for transmitting all orders to the fund promptly.
DEALER COMPENSATION Qualifying dealers who sell fund shares may receive
sales commissions and other payments. These are paid by Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc. (Distributors) from sales charges, distribution and
service (12b-1) fees and its other resources.
CLASS A CLASS C
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
COMMISSION (%) --- 2.00
Investment under $100,000 4.00 ---
$100,000 but under $250,000 3.25 ---
$250,000 but under $500,000 2.25 ---
$500,000 but under $1 million 1.85 ---
$1 million or more up to 0.75 1 ---
12B-1 FEE TO DEALER 0.10 0.65 2
A dealer commission of up to 0.25% may be paid on Class A NAV purchases by
certain trust companies and bank trust departments, eligible governmental
authorities, and broker-dealers or others on behalf of clients participating
in comprehensive fee programs.
1. During the first year after purchase, dealers may not be eligible to
receive the 12b-1 fee.
2. Dealers may be eligible to receive up to 0.15% during the first year after
purchase and may be eligible to receive the full 12b-1 fee starting in the
13th month.
[Insert graphic of question mark]QUESTIONS
If you have any questions about the fund or your account, you can write to us
at P.O. Box 997151, Sacramento, CA 95899-9983. You can also call us at one of
the following numbers. For your protection and to help ensure we provide you
with quality service, all calls may be monitored or recorded.
HOURS (PACIFIC TIME,
DEPARTMENT NAME TELEPHONE NUMBER MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Services 1-800/632-2301 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
(Saturday)
Fund Information 1-800/DIAL BEN 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
(1-800/342-5236) 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
(Saturday)
Retirement Plan Services
1-800/527-2020 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Dealer Services 1-800/524-4040 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Institutional Services 1-800/321-8563 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
TDD (hearing impaired) 1-800/851-0637 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
You can learn more about each fund in the following documents:
ANNUAL/SEMIANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS
Includes a discussion of recent market conditions and fund strategies,
financial statements, detailed performance information, portfolio holdings,
and the auditor's report.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (SAI)
Contains more information about each fund, its investments and policies. It
is incorporated by reference (is legally a part of this prospectus).
For a free copy of the current annual/semiannual report or the SAI, please
contact your investment representative or call us at the number below.
FRANKLIN(R)TEMPLETON(R)
1-800/DIAL BEN(R) (1-800/342-5236)
TDD (Hearing Impaired) 1-800/851-0637
www.franklin-templeton.com
You can also obtain information about each fund by visiting the SEC's Public
Reference Room in Washington D.C. (phone 1-800/SEC-0330) or by sending your
request and a duplicating fee to the SEC's Public Reference Section,
Washington, DC 20549-6009. You can also visit the SEC's Internet site at
http://www.sec.gov.
Investment Company Act file #811-4149 TF2 P 07/99
PROSPECTUS
FRANKLIN TAX FREE TRUST
FRANKLIN ARIZONA TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & C
FRANKLIN COLORADO TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & C
FRANKLIN CONNECTICUT TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & C
FRANKLIN FEDERAL INTERMEDIATE TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
FRANKLIN HIGH YIELD TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A, B & C
FRANKLIN INDIANA TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
FRANKLIN MICHIGAN TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
FRANKLIN NEW JERSEY TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & C
FRANKLIN OREGON TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & C
FRANKLIN PENNSYLVANIA TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & C
FRANKLIN PUERTO RICO TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & C
CLASS A, B AND C
INVESTMENT STRATEGY Tax Free Income
JULY 1, 1999
[Insert Franklin Templeton Ben Head]
THE SEC HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE
ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL
OFFENSE.
CONTENTS
THE FUNDS
[Begin callout]
Information about each fund you should know before investing
[End callout]
[insert page #] Goals and Strategies
[insert page #] Main Risks
[insert page #] Performance
[insert page #] Fees and Expenses
[insert page #] Management
[insert page #] Distributions and Taxes; Year 2000 Problem
[insert page #] Financial Highlights
YOUR ACCOUNT
[Begin callout]
Information about sales charges, account transactions and services
[End callout]
[insert page #] Choosing a Share Class
[insert page #] Buying Shares
[insert page #] Investor Services
[insert page #] Selling Shares
[insert page #] Account Policies
[insert page #] Questions
FOR MORE INFORMATION
[Begin callout]
Where to learn more about [the][each] fund
[End callout]
Back Cover
THE FUNDS
[Insert graphic of bullseye and arrows] GOALS AND STRATEGIES
GOALS The Federal Intermediate Fund's investment goal is to provide
investors with as high a level of income exempt from federal income taxes,
including the individual alternative minimum tax, as is consistent with
prudent investing, while seeking preservation of shareholders' capital.
The High Yield Fund's principal investment goal is to provide investors with
a high current yield exempt from federal income taxes. Its secondary goal is
capital appreciation to the extent possible and consistent with the fund's
principal investment goal.
The Puerto Rico Fund's investment goal is to provide investors with as high a
level of income exempt from federal income taxes as is consistent with
prudent investing, while seeking preservation of shareholders' capital. The
Puerto Rico Fund also seeks to provide a maximum level of income that is free
from the personal income taxes of a majority of states, although this policy
is not a fundamental investment goal of the fund and may be changed without
shareholder approval.
Each state fund's investment goal is to provide investors with as high a
level of income exempt from federal income taxes and from personal income
taxes for resident shareholders of the fund's state as is consistent with
prudent investing, while seeking preservation of shareholders' capital.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENTS Each fund normally invests predominately in municipal
securities whose interest is free from federal income taxes, including the
federal alternative minimum tax, and, in the case of each state fund, the
personal income taxes, if any, of the fund's state. The Puerto Rico Fund also
normally invests predominately in municipal securities whose interest is free
from the personal income taxes of a majority of states. Although each fund
tries to invest all of its assets in tax-free securities, it is possible,
although not anticipated, that up to 20% of its assets may be in securities
that pay taxable interest.
[Begin callout]
MUNICIPAL SECURITIES are issued by state and local governments, their
agencies and authorities, as well as by the District of Columbia and U.S.
territories and possessions, to borrow money for various public and private
projects. The issuer pays a fixed or variable rate of interest, and must
repay the amount borrowed (the "principal") at maturity.
[End callout]
Each fund, except the High Yield Fund, only buys securities rated in the top
four ratings by U.S. nationally recognized rating services (or comparable
unrated securities). The High Yield Fund may invest in securities rated in
any rating, including defaulted securities, although it currently invests
primarily in securities rated BBB/Baa or below (or comparable unrated
securities).
None of the funds have restrictions on the maturity of the securities they
may buy, although the Federal Intermediate Fund must maintain a
dollar-weighted average portfolio maturity of three to 10 years. Since
securities with longer maturities may provide higher yields, the High Yield
Fund generally invests in longer-term securities.
The manager selects securities that it believes will provide the best balance
between risk and return within a fund's range of allowable investments and
typically uses a buy and hold strategy. This means it holds securities in the
fund's portfolio for income purposes, rather than trading securities for
capital gains, although the manager may sell a security at any time if it
believes it could help the fund meet its goal. The manager may consider
existing market conditions, the availability of lower-rated securities, and
whether the difference in yields between higher- and lower-rated securities
justifies the higher risk of lower-rated securities when selecting securities
for the High Yield Fund's portfolio.
Each fund may invest in variable and floating rate securities, whose interest
rates change either at specific intervals or whenever a benchmark rate
changes. While this feature helps protect against a decline in the security's
market price when interest rates go up, it lowers the fund's income when
interest rates fall.
Each fund also may invest in municipal lease obligations, which generally are
issued to finance the purchase of public property. The property is leased to
a state or local government and the lease payments are used to pay the
interest on the obligations. These differ from other municipal securities
because the money to make the lease payments must be set aside each year or
the lease can be cancelled without penalty. If this happens, investors who
own the obligations may not be paid.
TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS The manager may take a temporary defensive position
when it believes the securities trading markets or the economy are
experiencing excessive volatility or a prolonged general decline, or other
unusual or adverse conditions exist. Under these circumstances, a fund may be
unable to pursue its investment goals, because it may not invest or may
invest substantially less in tax-free securities or, in the case of the state
and Puerto Rico funds, in municipal securities of the fund's state or
territory.
[Insert graphic of chart with line going up and down] MAIN RISKS
INCOME Since each fund can only distribute what it earns, the fund's
distributions to shareholders may decline when interest rates fall.
CREDIT There is the possibility that an issuer will be unable to make
interest payments and repay principal. Changes in an issuer's financial
strength or in a security's credit rating may affect a security's value and,
thus, impact fund performance.
Many of each fund's portfolio securities may be supported by credit
enhancements, which may be provided by either U.S. or foreign entities. These
securities have the credit risk of the entity providing the credit support.
To the extent a fund holds insured securities, a change in the credit rating
of any one or more of the municipal bond insurers that insure securities in
the fund's portfolio may affect the value of the securities they insure and
the fund's share price. Credit support provided by a foreign entity may be
less certain because of the possibility of adverse foreign economic,
political or legal developments that may affect the ability of that entity to
meet its obligations.
LOWER-RATED SECURITIES. Securities rated below the top four ratings,
sometimes called "municipal junk bonds," generally have more credit risk than
higher-rated securities. The High Yield Fund may invest up to 100% of its
assets in these securities. None of the other funds invests in securities
rated below the top four ratings.
The risk of default or price changes due to changes in the issuer's credit
quality is greater with lower-rated securities. Issuers of lower-rated
securities are typically in weaker financial health than issuers of
higher-rated securities, and their ability to make interest payments or repay
principal is less certain. These issuers also are more likely to encounter
financial difficulties and to be materially affected by these difficulties
when they encounter them. The market price of lower-rated securities may
fluctuate more than higher-rated securities and may decline significantly in
periods of general or regional economic difficulty. Lower-rated securities
also may be less liquid than higher-rated securities.
[Begin callout]
Because interest rates and municipal security prices fluctuate, the amount of
the fund's distributions and the value of your investment in the fund will go
up and down. This means you could lose money over short or even extended
periods.
[End callout]
INTEREST RATE When interest rates go up, municipal security prices fall. The
opposite is also true: municipal security prices go up when interest rates
fall. In general, securities with longer maturities are more sensitive to
these price changes.
CALL There is the likelihood that a security will be prepaid (called) before
maturity. An issuer is more likely to call its securities when interest rates
are falling, because the issuer can issue new securities with lower interest
payments. If a security is called, the fund may have to replace it with a
lower-yielding security. At any time, each fund may have a large amount of
its assets invested in municipal securities subject to call risk, including
escrow-secured or defeased bonds. A call of some or all of these securities
may lower the fund's income and its distributions to shareholders.
MARKET A security's value may be reduced by market activity or the results of
supply and demand. This is a basic risk associated with all securities. When
there are more sellers than buyers, prices tend to fall. Likewise, when there
are more buyers than sellers, prices tend to go up.
Each fund may invest more than 25% of its assets in municipal securities that
finance similar types of projects, such as hospitals, housing, industrial
development, transportation or pollution control. A change that affects one
project, such as proposed legislation on the financing of the project, a
shortage of the materials needed for the project, or a declining need for the
project, would likely affect all similar projects, thereby increasing market
risk.
WHEN-ISSUED AND DELAYED DELIVERY TRANSACTIONS Municipal securities may be
issued on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis, where payment and delivery
take place at a future date. Since the market price of the security may
fluctuate during the time before payment and delivery, the fund assumes the
risk that the value of the security at delivery may be more or less than the
purchase price.
DIVERSIFICATION The Connecticut, Federal Intermediate and Michigan Funds are
non-diversified funds. They may invest a greater portion of their assets in
the municipal securities of one issuer than a diversified fund. These funds
may be more sensitive to economic, business, political or other changes
affecting similar issuers or securities, which may result in greater
fluctuation in the value of their shares. The funds, however, intend to meet
certain tax diversification requirements. The other funds are all diversified
funds.
Each state fund and the Puerto Rico Fund may involve more risk than an
investment in a fund that does not focus on securities of a single state or
territory. The Federal Intermediate and High Yield Funds are diversified
nationally. The High Yield Fund will not invest more than 25% of its total
assets in the municipal securities of any one state or territory.
STATE Since each state fund invests heavily in municipal securities of its
state, events in that state are likely to affect the fund's investments and
its performance. These events may include economic or political policy
changes, tax base erosion, state constitutional limits on tax increases,
budget deficits and other financial difficulties, and changes in the ratings
assigned to the state's municipal issuers.
A negative change in any one of these or other areas could affect the ability
of a state's municipal issuers to meet their obligations. It is important to
remember that economic, budget and other conditions within a state are
unpredictable and can change at any time.
To the extent the Federal Intermediate, High Yield or Puerto Rico Funds are
invested in a state, events in that state may affect their investments and
their performance.
U.S. TERRITORIES The Puerto Rico Fund invests heavily in Puerto Rico
municipal securities and may invest up to 35% of its total assets in
municipal securities issued by other U.S. territories. Each of the other
funds also may invest in municipal securities issued by U.S. territories. As
with state municipal securities, events in any of these territories where a
fund is invested may affect the fund's investments and its performance.
Year 2000 When evaluating current and potential portfolio positions, Year
2000 is one of the factors the funds' manager considers.
Municipal issuers generally are not required to report on their Year 2000
readiness. This makes it more difficult for the manager to evaluate their
readiness. There have been reports, however, that many municipal issuers are
behind in their efforts to address the Year 2000 problem. The manager, of
course, cannot audit each issuer and its major suppliers to verify their Year
2000 readiness. The manager is making extensive efforts, however, to contact
the issuers of municipal securities held by the funds to try to assess their
Year 2000 readiness.
If an issuer in which the fund is invested is adversely affected by Year 2000
problems, it is possible that the issuer's ability to make timely interest
and principal payments also will be affected, at least temporarily. This may
affect both the amount and timing of the fund's distributions and the fund's
performance. It also is likely that the price of the issuer's securities will
be adversely affected. A decrease in the value of one or more of the fund's
portfolio holdings will have a similar impact on the fund's performance.
Please see page [#] for more information.
More detailed information about the fund, its policies (including temporary
investments), risks and municipal securities ratings can be found in the
fund's Statement of Additional Information (SAI).
[Begin callout]
Mutual fund shares are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed or
endorsed by, any bank, and are not federally insured by the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board, or any other agency of the
U.S. government. Mutual fund shares involve investment risks, including the
possible loss of principal.
[End callout]
[Insert graphic of a bull and a bear] PERFORMANCE
This bar chart and table show the volatility of the fund's returns, which is
one indicator of the risks of investing in the fund. The bar chart shows
changes in the fund's returns from year to year over the past 2 calendar
years for the Michigan Fund, 6 calendar years for the Federal Intermediate
Fund and the past 10 calendar years for the remaining funds. The table shows
how each fund's average annual total returns compare to those of a
broad-based securities market index. Of course, past performance cannot
predict or guarantee future results.
ARIZONA FUND - CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
9.74% 5.80% 12.24% 10.02% 11.18% -4.03% 14.59% 4.21% 8.23% 5.44%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 5.83%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -4.32%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended February 28, 1999
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund - Class A 2 0.94% 4.60% 7.15%
Lehman Brothers Municipal
Bond 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
Index 3
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund - Class C 2 2.71% 6.75%
Lehman Brothers Municpal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 1.05%.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest. One cannot invest directly
in an index, nor is an index representative of the fund's portfolio.
COLORADO FUND - CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
9.90% 5.78% 12.35% 10.00% 12.74% -5.43% 16.07% 4.76% 8.82% 5.73%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1'95 6.62%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1'94 -5.02%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended February 28, 1999
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Colorado Fund - Class A 2 1.21% 4.85% 7.45%
Lehman Brothers Municipal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Colorado - Class C 2 3.17% 6.81%
Lehman Brothers Municipal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.88%.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last five
years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at least two
years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
CONNECTICUT FUND - CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
9.95% 4.93% 10.77% 8.33% 12.32% -5.40% 14.32% 4.48% 8.50% 5.96%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q2 '89 5.60%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -4.73%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended February 28, 1999
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Connecticut Fund - Class A 2 1.44% 4.46% 6.82%
Lehman Brothers Municipal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Connecticut Fund - Class C 2 3.35% 6.50%
Lehman Brothers Municipal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 1.04%.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
FEDERAL INTERMEDIATE FUND - ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
12.68% -2.71% 14.42% 6.68% 5.27% 5.80%
- -------------------------------------------
93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1'95 5.19%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1'94 -3.76%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended February 28, 1999
1 YEAR 5 YEARS SINCE
INCEPTION
(9/21/93)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Federal Intermediate Fund 2 3.40% 5.28% 6.61%
Lehman Brothers 10 Yr Muni
Bond Index 3 6.76% 6.35% 7.43%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.72%.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers 10-Year
Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last five years as
part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at least ten years. It
includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
HIGH YIELD FUND - CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
9.79% 5.11% 12.40% 9.25% 13.27% -2.59% 16.29% 6.16% 10.60% 4.81%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 6.38%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -3.02%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended February 28, 1999
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
High Yield Fund - Class A 2 0.32% 5.94% 7.91%
Lehman Brothers Municipal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
High Yield Fund - Class C 2 2.15% 7.51%
Lehman Brothers Municipal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 1.12%.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
INDIANA FUND - ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
11.12% 5.89% 12.21% 9.85% 12.83% -4.99% 14.15% 5.02% 8.48% 5.58%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 5.55%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -4.82%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended February 28, 1999
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Indiana Fund 2 1.05% 4.55% 7.41%
Lehman Brothers Municipal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.90%.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
MICHIGAN FUND - ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
10.69% 7.57%
- --------------
97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q2 '97 4.07%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '97 -0.60%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended February 28, 1999
1 YEAR 5 YEARS SINCE
INCEPTION
(7/1/96)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Michigan Fund 2 3.04% -- 7.54%
Lehman Brothers Municpal
Bond Index 3 6.48% -- 8.27%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 1.11%.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
NEW JERSEY FUND - CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
9.39% 6.56% 12.46% 9.19% 10.97% -5.21% 15.58% 4.04% 8.34% 6.11%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 6.44%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -4.79%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended February 28, 1999
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
New Jersey Fund - Class A 2 1.59% 4.64% 7.14%
Lehman Brothers Municipal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- ----------------------------------------------------
New Jersey Fund - Class C 2 3.44% 6.56%
Lehman Brothers Municpal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of June 30, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.81%.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
OREGON FUND - CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
9.31% 5.55% 12.63% 8.66% 10.91% -4.93% 15.08% 4.32% 8.24% 5.44%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1 '95 6.54%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1 '94 -4.55%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended February 28, 1999
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Oregon Fund - Class A 2 0.93% 4.52% 6.93%
Lehman Brothers Municipal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Oregon Fund - Class C 2 2.78% 6.30%
Lehman Brothers Municpal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.87%.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
PENNSYLVANIA FUND - CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
10.32% 3.87% 13.48% 9.83% 11.66% -3.29% 14.34% 4.50% 8.94% 5.48%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q2'89 5.97%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1'94 -3.64%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended February 28, 1999
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Pennsylvania Fund - Class A 2 0.98% 4.91% 7.33%
Lehman Brothers Municipal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- -----------------------------------------------------
Pennsylvania Fund - Class C 2 2.80% 6.52%
Lehman Brothers Municpal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 0.85%.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
PUERTO RICO FUND - CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
9.75% 5.38% 12.27% 9.12% 10.99% -4.28% 14.49% 5.08% 8.75% 5.74%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
YEAR
[Begin callout]
BEST QUARTER:
Q1'95 5.95%
WORST QUARTER:
Q1'94 -4.27%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended February 28, 1999
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Puerto Rico Fund - Class A 2 1.21% 4.87% 7.14%
Lehman Brothers Municipal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 6.23% 8.22%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Puerto Rico Fund - Class C 2 3.18% 6.55%
Lehman Brothers Municpal
Bond Index 3 6.48% 8.10%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of March 31, 1999, the fund's year-to-date return was 1.37%.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal. The unmanaged Lehman Brothers
Municipal Bond Index includes investment grade bonds issued within the last
five years as part of a deal of over $50 million and with a maturity of at
least two years. It includes reinvested interest.
One cannot invest directly in an index, nor is an index representative of the
fund's portfolio.
[Insert graphic of percentage sign] FEES AND EXPENSES
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and
hold shares of the fund.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
ARIZONA COLORADO CONNECTICUT FED INTER HIGH YIELD INDIANA MICHIGAN NEW JERSEY OREGON PENNSYLVANIA PUERTO
FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND RICO FUND
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS A 1
Maximum sales
charge (load) as
a percentage of
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
offering price 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 2.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25%
Load imposed on
purchases 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 2.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25% 4.25%
Maximum deferred
sales charge None None None None None None None None None None None
(load) 3
Exchange fee None None None None None None None None None None None
CLASS B 2
Maximum sales
charge (load) as
a percentage of
offering price - - - - 4.00% - - - - - -
Load imposed on
purchases - - - - 0.00% - - - - - -
Maximum deferred
sales charge - - - - 4.00% - - - - - -
(load) 5
Exchange fee - - - - None - - - - - -
CLASS C 1
Maximum sales
charge (load) as
a percentage of
offering price 1.99% 1.99% - 1.99% 1.99% - - 1.99% 1.99% 1.99% 1.99%
Load imposed on
purchases 1.00% 1.00% - 1.00% 1.00% - - 1.00% 1.00% 1.00% 1.00%
Maximum deferred
sales charge 0.99% 0.99% - 0.99% 0.99% - - 0.99% 0.99% 0.99% 0.99%
(load) 5
Exchange fee None None - None None - - None None None None
Please see "Choosing a Share Class" on page [#] for an explanation of how and when these sales charges apply.
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES DEDUCTED FROM FUND ASSETS)
ARIZONA COLORADO CONNECTICUT FED INTER HIGH YIELD INDIANA MICHIGAN NEW JERSEY OREGON PENNSYLVANIA PUERTO
FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND RICO FUND
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS A
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Management fees 0.48% 0.54% 0.56% 0.58% 0.46% 0.63% 0.63% 0.49% 0.51% 0.48% 0.56%
Distribution and
service
(12b-1) fees 5 0.09% 0.09% 0.09% 0.10% 0.09% 0.09% 0.10% 0.09% 0.09% 0.09% 0.09%
Other expenses
0.06% 0.07% 0.07% 0.10% 0.07% 0.10% 0.21% 0.07% 0.07% 0.08% 0.09%
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total annual fund
operating expenses 0.63% 0.70% 0.72% 0.78% 6 0.62% 0.82% 0.94% 6 0.65% 0.67% 0.65% 0.74%
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS B 2
Management fees - - - - 0.46% - - - - - -
Distribution and
service - - - - 0.65% - - - - - -
(12b-1) fees 5
Other expenses
- - - - 0.07% - - - - - -
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total annual fund
operating expenses - - - - 1.18% - - - - - -
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS C
Management fees 0.48% 0.54% 0.56% - 0.46% - - 0.49% 0.51% 0.48% 0.56%
Distribution and
service 0.65% 0.65% 0.65% - 0.65% - - 0.65% 0.65% 0.65% 0.65%
(12b-1) fees 5
Other expenses
0.06% 0.07% 0.07% - 0.07% - - 0.07% 0.07% 0.08% 0.09%
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total annual fund
operating expenses 1.19% 1.26% 1.28% - 1.18% - - 1.21% 1.23% 1.21% 1.30%
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
1. Before January 1, 1999, Class A shares were designated Class I and Class C
shares were designated Class II.
2. The fund began offering Class B shares on January 1, 1999. Annual fund
operating expenses are based on the expenses for Class A and C for the fiscal
year ended February 28, 1999. The distribution and service (12b-1) fees are
based on the maximum fees allowed under Class B's Rule 12b-1 plan.
3. Except for investments of $1 million or more (see page [#]).
4. This is equivalent to a charge of 1% based on net asset value.
5. Because of the distribution and service (12b-1) fees, over the long term
you may indirectly pay more than the equivalent of the maximum permitted
initial sales charge.
6. For the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999, the manager had agreed in
advance to limit its management. With this reduction, management fees were
0.55% for the Federal Intermediate Fund and 0.00% for the Michigan Fund and
total annual fund operating expenses were 0.75% and 0.25% for each fund
respectively. The manager may end this arrangement at any time upon notice to
the fund's Board of Trustees.
EXAMPLE
This example can help you compare the cost of investing in the fund with the
cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes you invest $10,000 for the periods shown and then sell
all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes your
investment has a 5% return each year and the fund's operating expenses remain
the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these
assumptions your costs would be:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ARIZONA COLORADO CONNECTICUT FED INTER HIGH YIELD INDIANA MICHIGAN NEW JERSEY OREGON PENNSYLVANIA PUERTO RICO
FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND FUND
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS A
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1 Year 1 487 493 495 303 486 505 517 489 491 489 497
3 Years 618 639 645 469 615 676 712 624 630 624 651
5 Years 761 798 809 649 756 861 923 772 782 772 819
10 Years 1,178 1,259 1,281 1,169 1,166 1,395 1,531 1,201 1,224 1,201 1,304
CLASS B
1 Year 2,3 - - - - 520 - - - - - -
3 Years - - - - 675 - - - - - -
5 Years - - - - 849 - - - - - -
10 Years - - - - 1,276 - - - - - -
CLASS C
1 Year 4 318 325 327 - 317 - - 320 322 320 329
3 Years 474 496 502 - 471 - - 480 486 480 508
5 Years 748 785 795 - 743 - - 758 769 758 806
10 Years 1,529 1,607 1,630 - 1,517 - - 1,551 1,574 1,551 1,652
</TABLE>
1. Assumes a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) will not apply.
2. Assumes conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares after eight years,
lowering your annual expenses from that time on.
3. For the same Class B investment, your costs would be $120 for the High
Yield Fund if you did not sell your shares at the end of the first year. Your
costs for the remaining periods would be the same.
4. For the same Class C investment, your costs would be $220 for the Arizona
Fund, $227 for the Colorado Fund, $229 for the Connecticut Fund, $219 for the
High Yield Fund, $222 for the New Jersey Fund, $224 for the Oregon Fund, $222
for the Pennsylvania Fund, and $231 for the Puerto Rico Fund if you did not
sell your shares at the end of the first year. Your costs for the remaining
periods would be the same.
[Insert graphic of briefcase] MANAGEMENT
Franklin Advisers, Inc. (Advisers), 777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA
94404, is the fund's investment manager. Together, Advisers and its
affiliates manage over $216 billion in assets.
The team responsible for each fund's management is:
THOMAS KENNY, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Mr. Kenny has been an analyst or portfolio manager for the Arizona, Colorado,
Connecticut, Federal Intermediate, Indiana, Michigan, New Jersey and Oregon
funds since inception and the High Yield, Pennsylvania and Puerto Rico funds
since 1987. He is the Director of Franklin's Municipal Bond Department. He
joined the Franklin Templeton Group in 1986.
JOHN POMEROY, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Mr. Pomeroy has been an analyst or portfolio manager for the Michigan Fund
since inception and the Connecticut fund since 1989. He joined the Franklin
Templeton Group in 1986.
STELLA WONG, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Ms. Wong has been an analyst or portfolio manager for the Connecticut,
Indiana, New jersey, and Pennsylvania funds since their inception. She joined
the Franklin Templeton Group in 1986.
SHEILA AMOROSO, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Ms. Amoroso has been an analyst or portfolio manager for the funds since
their inception. She joined the Franklin Templeton Group in 1986.
JOHN WILEY, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Mr. Wiley has been an analyst or portfolio manager for the Indiana and Oregon
funds since 1991. He joined the Franklin Templeton Group in 1989.
CARRIE HIGGINS, PORTFOLIO MANAGER OF ADVISERS
Ms. Higgins has been an analyst or portfolio manager for the Arizona and
Colorado funds since 1992 and for the Michigan Fund since inception. She
joined the Franklin Templeton Group in 1990.
MARK ORSI, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Mr. Orsi has been an analyst or portfolio manager for the Federal
Intermediate fund since inception. He joined the Franklin Templeton Group in
1990.
BEN BARBER, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISERS
Mr. Barber has been an analyst or portfolio manager for the High Yield and
Puerto Rico funds since 1993. He joined the Franklin Templeton Group in 1991.
Each fund pays the manager a fee for managing the fund's assets and making
its investment decisions. For the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999, each
fund paid, as a percentage of its average monthly net assets the following to
the manager:
MANAGEMENT
FEES (%)
- --------------------------------
Arizona Fund 0.48
Colorado Fund 0.54
Connecticut Fund 0.56
Federal Intermediate 0.55 1
Fund
High Yield Fund 0.46
Indiana Fund 0.63
Michigan Fund 0.00 1
New Jersey Fund 0.49
Oregon Fund 0.51
Pennsylvania Fund 0.48
Puerto Rico Fund 0.56
1. Management fees, before any advance waiver, were 0.58% for the Federal
Intermediate Fund and 0.63% for the Michigan Fund of the fund's average
monthly net assets. Under an agreement by the manager to limit its fees, the
Federal Intermediate Fund paid 0.14% and the Michigan Fund paid 0.13% of its
average monthly net assets to the manager. The manager may end this
arrangement at any time upon notice to the fund's Board of Trustees.
[Insert graphic of dollar
signs and stacks of coins] DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES; YEAR 2000 PROBLEM
INCOME AND CAPITAL GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS Each fund declares dividends daily
from its net investment income and pays them monthly on or about the 20th day
of the month. Your account may begin to receive dividends on the day after we
receive your investment and will continue to receive dividends through the
day we receive a request to sell your shares. Capital gains, if any, may be
distributed twice a year. The amount of these distributions will vary and
there is no guarantee the fund will pay dividends.
Please keep in mind that if you invest in the fund shortly before the fund
deducts a capital gain distribution from its net asset value, you will
receive some of your investment back in the form of a taxable distribution.
TAX CONSIDERATIONS Fund distributions will consist primarily of
exempt-interest dividends from interest earned on municipal securities. In
general, exempt-interest dividends are exempt from federal income tax. Each
fund, however, may invest a portion of its assets in securities that pay
income that is not tax-exempt. Fund distributions from such income are
taxable to you as ordinary income. Any capital gains a fund distributes are
taxable to you as long-term capital gains no matter how long you have owned
your shares. Distributions of ordinary income or capital gains are taxable
whether you reinvest your distributions in additional fund shares or receive
them in cash.
[Begin callout]
BACKUP WITHHOLDING
By law, a fund must withhold 31% of your taxable distributions and proceeds
if you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number (TIN) or
certify that your TIN is correct, or if the IRS instructs a fund to do so.
[End callout]
Every January, you will receive a statement that shows the tax status of
distributions you received for the previous year. Distributions declared in
December but paid in January are taxable as if they were paid in December.
When you sell your shares of a fund, you may have a capital gain or loss.
For tax purposes, an exchange of your fund shares for shares of a different
Franklin Templeton Fund is the same as a sale. The individual tax rate on
any gain from the sale or exchange of your shares depends on how long you
have held your shares.
Exempt-interest dividends are taken into account when determining the taxable
portion of your social security or railroad retirement benefits. A fund also
may invest a portion of its assets in private activity bonds. The income
from these bonds is a preference item when determining your alternative
minimum tax.
Exempt-interest dividends from interest earned on municipal securities of a
state, or its political subdivisions, generally are exempt from that state's
personal income tax. Most states, however, do not grant tax-free treatment
to interest from municipal securities of other states.
Distributions of ordinary income and capital gains, and gains from the sale
or exchange of your fund shares generally will be subject to state and local
income tax. Non-U.S. investors may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate
tax. You should consult your tax advisor about the federal, state, local or
foreign tax consequences of your investment in a fund. If you are a resident
of Puerto Rico, you should consult with your tax advisor before investing in
any of the funds.
YEAR 2000 PROBLEM The fund's business operations depend on a worldwide
network of computer systems that contain date fields, including securities
trading systems, securities transfer agent operations and stock market links.
Many of the systems currently use a two digit date field to represent the
date, and unless these systems are changed or modified, they may not be able
to distinguish the Year 1900 from the Year 2000 (commonly referred to as the
Year 2000 problem). In addition, the fact that the Year 2000 is a leap year
may create difficulties for some systems.
When the Year 2000 arrives, the fund's operations could be adversely affected
if the computer systems used by the manager, its service providers and other
third parties it does business with are not Year 2000 ready. For example, the
fund's portfolio and operational areas could be impacted, including
securities trade processing, interest and dividend payments, securities
pricing, shareholder account services, reporting, custody functions and
others.
The fund's manager and its affiliated service providers are making a
concerted effort to take steps they believe are reasonably designed to
address their Year 2000 problems. Of course, the fund's ability to reduce the
effects of the Year 2000 problem is also very much dependent upon the efforts
of third parties over which the fund and its manager may have no control.
[Insert graphic of a dollar bill] Financial Highlights
This table presents the fund's financial performance for the past five years.
This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.
ARIZONA FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value, 11.44 11.24 11.34 11.11 11.58
beginning of year
--------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .59 .61 .62 .64 .65
Net realized and
unrealized (.01) .29 (.04) .36 (.48)
gains (losses)
--------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .58 .90 .58 1.00 .17
--------------------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.59) 2 (.61) (.63) (.65) (.64)
In excess of net
investment -- (.01) -- -- --
income
Distributions from net
realized gains (.05) (.08) (.05) (.12) --
--------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.64) (.70) (.68) (.77) (.64)
--------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 11.38 11.44 11.24 11.34 11.11
==================================================
Total return (%) 1 5.17 8.23 5.33 9.24 1.63
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 861,020 810,250 752,335 750,797 720,801
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .63 .63 .62 .62 .60
Net investment income 5.11 5.40 5.59 5.67 5.86
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 14.11 20.02 16.57 25.12 18.65
CLASS C
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.51 11.30 11.38 11.15
---------------------------------
Net investment income .52 .56 .57 .49
Net realized and
unrealized (.01) .29 (.03) .34
gains (losses)
---------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .51 .85 .54 .83
---------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.52) 2 (.56) (.57) (.48)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.05) (.08) (.05) (.12)
---------------------------------
Total distributions (.57) (.64) (.62) (.60)
---------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 11.45 11.51 11.30 11.38
year
---------------------------------
Total return (%) 3 4.54 7.67 4.89 7.60
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 23,871 14,537 5,486 1,892
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.19 1.19 1.19 1.20 4
Net investment income 4.55 4.82 5.01 5.05 4
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 14.11 20.02 16.57 25.12
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class C.
2. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.002 and $.001 for Class A and C, respectively.
3. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
4. Annualized
COLORADO FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1 1995
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.11 11.80 11.84 11.38 11.94
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .60 .63 .66 .67 .67
Net realized and
unrealized .02 .39 (.04) .45 (.57)
gains (losses)
-----------------------------------------
Total from investment .62 1.02 .62 1.12 .10
operations
-----------------------------------------
Dividends from net (.60) (.64) (.66) (.66) (.66)
investment income
Distributions from net (.08) (.07) -- -- --
realized gains
-----------------------------------------
Total distributions (.68) (.71) (.66) (.66) (.66)
-----------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 12.05 12.11 11.80 11.84 11.38
year
-----------------------------------------
Total return (%)2 5.24 8.86 5.44 10.12 1.05
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 301,381 266,599 236,609 215,609 194,564
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .70 .71 .71 .71 .70
Net investment income 4.93 5.28 5.59 5.73 5.94
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 12.60 22.97 14.13 17.58 28.83
CLASS C
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.17 11.84 11.87 11.40
---------------------------------
Net investment income .54 .57 .59 .50
Net realized and
unrealized .02 .40 (.02) .46
gains (losses)
---------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .56 .97 .57 .96
---------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.54) (.57) (.60) (.49)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.08) (.07) -- --
---------------------------------
Total distributions (.62) (.64) (.60) (.49)
---------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 12.11 12.17 11.84 11.87
year
---------------------------------
Total return (%) 2 4.63 8.39 4.93 8.57
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 21,899 10,855 5,654 1,656
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.26 1.27 1.28 1.29 3
Net investment income 4.38 4.72 4.99 5.12 3
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 12.60 22.97 14.13 17.58
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class C.
2. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
3. Annualized Total return does not include sales charges.
CONNECTICUT FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1 1995
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.23 10.92 10.96 10.64 11.23
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .58 .60 .61 .62 .62
Net realized and
unrealized .04 .32 (.02) .32 (.60)
gains (losses)
-----------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .62 .92 .59 .94 .02
-----------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.58) 2 (.60) (.63) (.62) (.61)
In excess of net
investment -- (.01) -- -- --
income
-----------------------------------------
Total distributions (.58) (.61) (.63) (.62) (.61)
-----------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 11.27 11.23 10.92 10.96 10.64
year
-----------------------------------------
Total return (%) 3 5.62 8.62 5.52 9.04 .37
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 245,016 203,643 183,649 167,045 155,623
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .72 .73 .72 .73 .71
Expenses excluding
waiver and payments by
affiliate
Net investment income 5.08 5.41 5.62 5.70 5.83
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 5.87 18.54 14.53 3.88 75.72
CLASS C
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.26 10.94 10.97 10.65
---------------------------------
Net investment income .52 .55 .60 .47
Net realized and
unrealized .03 .31 (.07) .31
gains (losses)
---------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .55 .86 .53 .78
---------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.51) 2 (.54) (.56) (.46)
---------------------------------
Total distributions (.51) (.54) (.56) (.46)
---------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 11.30 11.26 10.94 10.97
year
---------------------------------
Total return (%) 3 5.02 8.08 5.03 7.45
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 23,443 8,636 4,149 1,656
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.28 1.29 1.29 1.30 4
Net investment income 4.53 4.85 5.01 5.12 4
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 5.87 18.54 14.53 3.88
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class C.
2. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.002.
3. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
4. Annualized
FEDERAL INTERMEDIATE FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1 1995
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.25 10.94 10.95 10.48 10.80
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .51 .53 .55 .55 .54
Net realized and
unrealized .06 .33 (.01) .47 (.33)
gains (losses)
-----------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .57 .86 .54 1.02 .21
-----------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.52) (.55) (.55) (.55) (.53)
-----------------------------------------
Total distributions (.52) (.55) (.55) (.55) (.53)
-----------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 11.30 11.25 10.94 10.95 10.48
year
-----------------------------------------
Total return (%) 2 5.17 8.02 5.12 9.93 (.20)
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 195,598 139,545 104,715 85,967 73,977
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .75 .75 .68 .65 .56
Expenses excluding
waiver and payments by .78 .82 .84 .85 .84
affiliate
Net investment income 4.53 4.83 5.16 5.12 5.25
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 16.57 23.32 22.54 3.35 38.46
HIGH YIELD FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
19991 1998 1997 1996 2 1995
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.68 11.21 11.19 10.74 11.25
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .66 .69 .71 .74 .74
Net realized and
unrealized (.18) .47 .04 .45 (.51)
gains (losses)
-----------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .48 1.16 .75 1.19 .23
-----------------------------------------
Dividends from net
Investment income (.65) (.68) (.73) 3 (.74) (.74)
In excess of net
investment -- (.01) -- -- --
income
Distributions from net
realized gains (.02) -- -- -- --
-----------------------------------------
Total distributions (.67) (.69) (.73) (.74) (.74)
-----------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 11.49 11.68 11.21 11.19 10.74
year
-----------------------------------------
Total return (%) 4 4.21 10.64 7.01 11.35 2.28
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1 million) 5,988 5,743 4,505 3,787 3,287
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .62 .61 .62 .61 .60
Net investment income 5.64 5.98 6.41 6.68 6.92
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 18.55 15.84 6.98 9.23 15.89
CLASS B
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
Beginning of period 11.51
--------
Net investment income .11
Dividends from net
investment income (.10)
--------
Net asset value, end of
period 11.52
--------
Total return (%) 4 .96
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 15,487
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.185
Net investment income 5.065
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 18.55
CLASS C
- -------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.75 11.26 11.24 10.81
---------------------------------
Net investment income .60 .63 .66 .56
Net realized and
unrealized (.18) .48 .03 .42
gains (losses)
---------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .42 1.11 .69 .98
---------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.59) (.62) (.67) 2 (.55)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.02) -- -- --
---------------------------------
Total distributions (.61) (.62) (.67) (.55)
---------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 11.56 11.75 11.26 11.24
year
---------------------------------
Total return (%) 4 3.69 10.15 6.36 9.27
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 631,974 423,264 194,400 48,163
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.18 1.18 1.18 1.185
Net investment income 5.07 5.38 5.78 6.075
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 18.55 15.84 6.98 9.23
1. For the Period January 1, 1999 (effective date) to February 28, 1999 for
Class B.
2. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class C.
3. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount of
$.008.
4. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
5. Annualized
INDIANA FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1 1995
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 12.07 11.77 11.76 11.40 12.01
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .62 .65 .66 .67 .66
Net realized and
unrealized -- .32 .01 .35 (.61)
gains (losses)
-----------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .62 .97 .67 1.02 .05
-----------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.63) (.65) (.66) (.66) (.66)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.03) (.02) -- -- --
-----------------------------------------
Total distributions (.66) (.67) (.66) (.66) (.66)
-----------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 12.03 12.07 11.77 11.76 11.40
year
-----------------------------------------
Total return (%) 2 5.25 8.52 5.91 9.20 .58
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 59,014 54,643 51,137 48,949 46,583
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .82 .82 .82 .80 .81
Net investment income 5.12 5.45 5.69 5.80 5.84
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 18.79 24.08 23.54 10.56 26.49
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class C.
2. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
MICHIGAN FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- -----------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1
- -----------------------------------------------------
Per share data ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.02 10.42 10.00
-------------------------
Net investment income .54 .51 .30
Net realized and
unrealized .12 .67 .32
gains
-------------------------
Total from investment
operations .66 1.18 .62
-------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.57) (.58) (.20)
In excess of net
investment (.02) -- --
income
-------------------------
Distributions from net
realized gains (.02) -- --
-------------------------
Total distributions (.59) (.58) (.20)
-------------------------
Net asset value, end of 11.09 11.02 10.42
year
-------------------------
Total return (%)2 6.15 11.62 6.17
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 17,117 9,268 3,884
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .25 .25 .343
Expenses excluding
waiver and payments by .94 1.01 1.213
affiliate
Net investment income 5.03 5.39 4.903
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 16.00 51.81 42.83
1. For the period July, 1 1996 (effective date) to February 28, 1997.
2. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
3. Annualized
NEW JERSEY FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1 1995
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.92 11.61 11.68 11.28 11.82
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .61 .63 .64 .65 .66
Net realized and
unrealized .05 .32 (.06) .39 (.55)
gains (losses)
-----------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .66 .95 .58 1.04 .11
-----------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.62) (.64) (.65) (.64) (.65)
-----------------------------------------
Total distributions (.62) (.64) (.65) (.64) (.65)
-----------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 11.96 11.92 11.61 11.68 11.28
year
-----------------------------------------
Total return (%) 2 5.63 8.37 5.13 9.43 1.12
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 681,818 636,929 574,691 564,864 533,973
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .65 .66 .64 .65 .63
Net investment income 5.06 5.34 5.58 5.65 5.86
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 5.43 12.77 8.87 12.04 31.05
CLASS C
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
Beginning of year 11.98 11.66 11.72 11.30
---------------------------------
Net investment income .54 .56 .57 .49
Net realized and
unrealized .06 .33 (.05) .40
gains (losses)
---------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .60 .89 .52 .89
---------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.55) (.57) (.58) (.47)
---------------------------------
Total distributions (.55) (.57) (.58) (.47)
---------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 12.03 11.98 11.66 11.72
year
---------------------------------
Total return (%)2 5.09 7.84 4.57 8.02
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 48,715 28,139 13,095 4,542
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.21 1.21 1.21 1.233
Net investment income 4.50 4.77 5.01 5.153
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 5.43 12.77 8.87 12.04
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for Class C.
2. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
3. Annualized
OREGON FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1 1995
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.86 11.55 11.60 11.22 11.70
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .59 .62 .63 .63 .63
Net realized and
unrealized (.01) .31 (.05) .38 (.49)
gains (losses)
-----------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .58 .93 .58 1.01 .14
-----------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.61) (.62) (.63) (.63) (.62)
-----------------------------------------
Total distributions (.61) (.62) (.63) (.63) (.62)
-----------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 11.83 11.86 11.55 11.60 11.22
year
-----------------------------------------
Total return (%) 2 5.12 8.21 5.13 9.19 1.36
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 483,664 427,022 384,003 375,415 349,458
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .67 .67 .66 .66 .65
Net investment income 5.00 5.33 5.52 5.51 5.71
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 10.65 12.18 4.47 6.52 26.44
CLASS C
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.92 11.61 11.65 11.23
---------------------------------
Net investment income .53 .56 .56 .47
Net realized and
unrealized -- .31 (.04) .41
gains (losses)
---------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .53 .87 .52 .88
---------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.55) (.56) (.56) (.46)
---------------------------------
Total distributions (.55) (.56) (.56) (.46)
---------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 11.90 11.92 11.61 11.65
year
---------------------------------
Total return (%) 2 4.59 7.66 4.59 7.99
Ratios/supplemental data
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 32,962 15,946 7,100 2,044
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.23 1.22 1.23 1.243
Net investment income 4.44 4.74 4.93 4.873
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 10.65 12.18 4.47 6.52
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for
Class C.
2. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
3. Annualized
PENNSYLVANIA FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1 1995
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 10.56 10.39 10.44 10.16 10.56
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .55 .58 .60 .62 .62
Net realized and
unrealized (.02) .32 (.04) .29 (.41)
gains (losses)
-----------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .53 .90 .56 .91 .21
-----------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.55) (.58) (.61) (.63) (.61)
In excess of net
investment (.01) (.01) -- -- --
Income
Distributions from net
realized gains (.01) (.14) -- -- --
-----------------------------------------
Total distributions (.57) (.73) (.61) (.63) (.61)
-----------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 10.52 10.56 10.39 10.44 10.16
year
-----------------------------------------
Total return (%) 2 5.11 8.90 5.53 9.15 2.22
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 758,942 713,141 658,339 639,847 587,366
Ratios to average net
Assets: (%)
Expenses .65 .65 .64 .64 .63
Net investment income 5.17 5.49 5.84 5.96 6.15
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 11.11 12.74 22.24 9.71 12.91
Class C
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
Beginning of year 10.61 10.43 10.47 10.17
---------------------------------
Net investment income .49 .52 .55 .47
Net realized and
unrealized (.03) .33 (.05) .30
Gains (losses)
---------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .46 .85 .50 .77
---------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.49) 3 (.53) (.54) (.47)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.01) (.14) -- --
---------------------------------
Total distributions (.50) (.67) (.54) (.47)
---------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 10.57 10.61 10.43 10.47
year
---------------------------------
Total return (%) 2 4.50 8.35 4.98 7.71
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 41,917 25,899 11,935 3,110
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.21 1.21 1.21 1.224
Net investment income 4.61 4.89 5.22 5.364
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 11.11 12.74 22.24 9.71
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for
Class C.
2. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
3. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount
of $.004.
4. Annualized
PUERTO RICO FUND
CLASS A YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 28,
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1 1995
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.86 11.51 11.59 11.31 11.83
-----------------------------------------
Net investment income .60 .62 .65 .66 .67
Net realized and
unrealized .06 .36 .02 .30 (.50)
gains (losses)
-----------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .66 .98 .67 .96 .17
-----------------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.60) 3 (.62) (.65) 3 (.67) 2 (.69)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.04) (.01) (.10) (.01) --
-----------------------------------------
Total distributions (.64) (.63) (.75) (.68) (.69)
-----------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 11.88 11.86 11.51 11.59 11.31
year
-----------------------------------------
Total return (%) 4 5.68 8.78 6.03 8.68 1.60
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 218,753 210,325 192,525 190,577 176,888
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses .74 .75 .73 .74 .73
Net investment income 4.98 5.35 5.62 5.71 5.95
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 20.19 7.94 21.09 27.99 18.30
Class C
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 11.87 11.53 11.62 11.32
---------------------------------
Net investment income .53 .56 .58 .50
Net realized and
unrealized .06 .34 .02 .30
gains
---------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .59 .90 .60 .80
---------------------------------
Dividends from net
investment income (.53) 5 (.55) (.59) (.49)
Distributions from net
realized gains (.04) (.01) (.10) (.01)
---------------------------------
Total distributions (.57) (.56) (.69) (.50)
---------------------------------
Net asset value, end of 11.89 11.87 11.53 11.62
year
---------------------------------
Total return (%) 5 5.09 8.07 5.33 7.21
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 7,050 3,615 1,679 533
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.30 1.31 1.30 1.326
Net investment income 4.43 4.78 5.04 5.166
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 20.19 7.94 21.09 27.99
1. For the period May 1, 1995 (effective date) to February 29, 1996 for
Class C.
2. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount
of $.001.
3. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount
of $.006.
4. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
5. Includes distributions in excess of net investment income in the amount
of $.004.
6. Annualized
YOUR ACCOUNT
[Insert graphic of pencil marking an "X"] CHOOSING A SHARE CLASS
Each class has its own sales charge and expense structure, allowing you to
choose the class that best meets your situation. Your investment
representative can help you decide.
CLASS B
CLASS A (HIGH YIELD FUND) CLASS C
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
o Initial sales o No initial o Initial
charge of 4.25% sales charge sales charge of
or less 1%
o Deferred sales o Deferred o Deferred
charge of 1% on sales charge of sales charge of
purchases of $1 4% or less on 1% on shares
million or more shares you sell you sell within
sold within 12 within six years 18 months
months
o Lower annual o Higher annual o Higher
expenses than expenses than annual expenses
Class B or C due Class A (same as than Class A
to lower Class C) due to (same as Class
distribution fees higher B) due to
distribution higher
fees. Automatic distribution
conversion to fees. No
Class A shares conversion to
after eight Class A shares,
years, reducing so annual
future annual expenses do not
expenses. decrease.
BEFORE JANUARY 1, 1999, CLASS A SHARES WERE DESIGNATED CLASS I AND CLASS C
SHARES WERE DESIGNATED CLASS II. THE FUND BEGAN OFFERING CLASS B SHARES ON
JANUARY 1, 1999.
SALES CHARGES - CLASS A (FOR ALL FUNDS EXCEPT FEDERAL INTERMEDIATE)
THE SALES CHARGE
MAKES UP THIS % WHICH EQUALS THIS
WHEN YOU INVEST THIS AMOUNT OF THE OFFERING % OF YOUR NET
PRICE INVESTMENT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------
Under $100,000 4.25 4.44
$100,000 but under $250,000 3.50 3.63
$250,000 but under $500,000 2.50 2.56
$500,000 but under $1 2.00 2.04
million
FEDERAL INTERMEDIATE FUND
THE SALES CHARGE
MAKES UP THIS % WHICH EQUALS THIS
WHEN YOU INVEST THIS AMOUNT OF THE OFFERING % OF YOUR NET
PRICE INVESTMENT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------
Under $100,000 2.25 2.30
$100,000 but under $250,000 1.75 1.78
$250,000 but under $500,000 1.25 1.26
$500,000 but under $1 1.00 1.01
million
INVESTMENTS OF $1 MILLION OR MORE If you invest $1 million or more, either
as a lump sum or through our cumulative quantity discount or letter of intent
programs (see page [#]), you can buy Class A shares without an initial sales
charge. However, there is a 1% contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) on any
shares you sell within 12 months of purchase. The way we calculate the CDSC
is the same for each class (please see page [#]).
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES Class A of the Michigan Fund and Class
A of the remaining funds has a distribution plan, sometimes known as a Rule
12b-1 plan, that allows the fund to pay distribution fees of up to 0.15% and
10%, respectively, per year to those who sell and distribute Class A shares
and provide other services to shareholders. Because these fees are paid out
of Class A's assets on an on-going basis, over time these fees will increase
the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of
sales charges.
SALES CHARGES - CLASS B (HIGH YIELD FUND ONLY)
IF YOU SELL YOUR SHARES
WITHIN THIS MANY YEARS AFTER THIS % IS DEDUCTED
BUYING THEM FROM YOUR PROCEEDS
AS A CDSC
- ------------------------------------------------------
1 Year 4
2 Years 4
3 Years 3
4 Years 3
5 Years 2
6 Years 1
7 Years 0
With Class B shares of the High Yield Fund, there is no initial sales charge.
However, there is a CDSC if you sell your shares within six years, as
described in the table above. The way we calculate the CDSC is the same for
each class (please see page [#]). After 8 years, your Class B shares
automatically convert to Class A shares, lowering your annual expenses from
that time on.
MAXIMUM PURCHASE AMOUNT The maximum amount you may invest in Class B shares at
one time is $249,999. We place any investment of $250,000 or more in Class A
shares, since a reduced initial sales charge is available and Class A's annual
expenses are lower.
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES The Class B for the High Yield Fund
has a distribution plan, sometimes known as a Rule 12b-1 plan, that allows
the fund to pay distribution and other fees of up to 0.65% per year for the
sale of Class B shares and for services provided to shareholders. Because
these fees are paid out of the Class B's assets on an on-going basis, over
time these fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you
more than paying other types of sales charges.
SALES CHARGES - CLASS C
THE SALES CHARGE
MAKES UP THIS % WHICH EQUALS THIS
WHEN YOU INVEST THIS AMOUNT OF THE OFFERING % OF YOUR NET
PRICE INVESTMENT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------
Under $1 million 1.00 1.01
We place any investment of $1 million or more in Class A shares, since there
is no initial sales charge and Class A's annual expenses are lower.
CDSC There is a 1% contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) on any Class C
shares you sell within 18 months of purchase. The way we calculate the CDSC
is the same for each class (please see below).
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES Class C has a distribution plan,
sometimes known as a Rule 12b-1 plan, that allows the fund to pay
distribution and other fees of up to 0.65% per year for the sale of Class C
shares and for services provided to shareholders. Because these fees are paid
out of Class C's assets on an on-going basis, over time these fees will
increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other
types of sales charges.
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE (CDSC) - CLASS A, B & C
The CDSC for each class is based on the current value of the shares being
sold or their net asset value when purchased, whichever is less. There is no
CDSC on shares you acquire by reinvesting your dividends or capital gains
distributions.
[Begin callout]
The HOLDING PERIOD FOR THE CDSC begins on the day you buy your shares. Your
shares will age one month on that same date the next month and each following
month.
For example, if you buy shares on the 18th of the month, they will age one
month on the 18th day of the next month and each following month.
[End callout]
To keep your CDSC as low as possible, each time you place a request to sell
shares we will first sell any shares in your account that are not subject to
a CDSC. If there are not enough of these to meet your request, we will sell
the shares in the order they were purchased. We will use this same method if
you exchange your shares into another Franklin Templeton Fund (please see
page [#] for exchange information).
SALES CHARGE REDUCTIONS AND WAIVERS
If you qualify for any of the sales charge reductions or waivers below,
please let us know at the time you make your investment to help ensure you
receive the lower sales charge.
QUANTITY DISCOUNTS We offer several ways for you to combine your purchases
in the Franklin Templeton Funds to take advantage of the lower sales charges
for large purchases of Class A shares.
[Begin callout]
The FRANKLIN TEMPLETON FUNDS include all of the Franklin Templeton U.S.
registered mutual funds, except Franklin Valuemark Funds, Templeton Capital
Accumulator Fund, Inc., and Templeton Variable Products Series Fund.
[End callout]
o CUMULATIVE QUANTITY DISCOUNT - lets you combine all of your shares in the
Franklin Templeton Funds for purposes of calculating the sales charge. You
also may combine the shares of your spouse, and your children or
grandchildren, if they are under the age of 21. Certain company and
retirement plan accounts also may be included.
o LETTER OF INTENT (LOI) - expresses your intent to buy a stated dollar
amount of shares over a 13-month period and lets you receive the same sales
charge as if all shares had been purchased at one time. We will reserve a
portion of your shares to cover any additional sales charge that may apply
if you do not buy the amount stated in your LOI.
TO SIGN UP FOR THESE PROGRAMS, COMPLETE THE APPROPRIATE SECTION OF YOUR
ACCOUNT APPLICATION.
REINSTATEMENT PRIVILEGE If you sell shares of a Franklin Templeton Fund, you
may reinvest some or all of the proceeds within 365 days without an initial
sales charge. The proceeds must be reinvested within the same share class,
except proceeds from the sale of Class B shares will be reinvested in Class A
shares.
If you paid a CDSC when you sold your Class A or C shares, we will credit
your account with the amount of the CDSC paid but a new CDSC will apply. For
Class B shares reinvested in Class A, a new CDSC will not apply, although
your account will not be credited with the amount of any CDSC paid when you
sold your Class B shares.
Proceeds immediately placed in a Franklin Bank Certificate of Deposit (CD)
also may be reinvested without an initial sales charge if you reinvest them
within 365 days from the date the CD matures, including any rollover.
This privilege does not apply to shares you buy and sell under our exchange
program. Shares purchased with the proceeds from a money fund may be subject
to a sales charge.
SALES CHARGE WAIVERS Class A shares may be purchased without an initial
sales charge or CDSC by various individuals and institutions or by investors
who reinvest certain distributions and proceeds within 365 days. The CDSC for
each class also may be waived for certain redemptions and distributions. If
you would like information about available sales charge waivers, call your
investment representative or call Shareholder Services at 1-800/632-2301. A
list of available sales charge waivers also may be found in the Statement of
Additional Information (SAI).
GROUP INVESTMENT PROGRAM Allows established groups of 11 or more investors
to invest as a group. For sales charge purposes, the group's investments are
added together. There are certain other requirements and the group must have
a purpose other than buying fund shares at a discount.
[Insert graphic of a paper with lines
and someone writing] BUYING SHARES
MINIMUM INVESTMENTS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
INITIAL ADDITIONAL
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Regular accounts $1,000 $50
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
UGMA/UTMA accounts $100 $50
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Broker-dealer sponsored wrap account
programs $250 $50
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Full-time employees, officers,
trustees and directors of Franklin
Templeton entities, and their
immediate family members $100 $50
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
ACCOUNT APPLICATION If you are opening a new account, please complete and
sign the enclosed account application. Make sure you indicate the share class
you have chosen. If you do not indicate a class, we will place your purchase
in Class A shares. To save time, you can sign up now for services you may
want on your account by completing the appropriate sections of the
application (see the next page).
BUYING SHARES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
OPENING AN ACCOUNT ADDING TO AN ACCOUNT
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic
of hands shaking]
Contact your investment Contact your investment
THROUGH YOUR representative representative
INVESTMENT
REPRESENTATIVE
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
Make your check payable Make your check payable
[Insert graphic to the fund. to the fund. Include
of envelope] your account number on
Mail the check and your the check.
BY MAIL signed application to
Investor Services. Fill out the deposit
slip from your account
statement. If you do
not have a slip,
include a note with
your name, the fund
name, and your account
number.
Mail the check and
deposit slip or note to
Investor Services.
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic Call to receive a wire Call to receive a wire
of three control number and wire control number and wire
lightning bolts] instructions. instructions.
Wire the funds and mail To make a same day wire
your signed application investment, please call
BY WIRE to Investor Services. us by 1:00 p.m. pacific
Please include the wire time and make sure your
1-800/632-2301 control number or your wire arrives by 3:00
(or new account number on p.m.
1-650/312-2000 the application.
collect)
To make a same day wire
investment, please call
us by 1:00 p.m. pacific
time and make sure your
wire arrives by 3:00
p.m.
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic Call Shareholder Call Shareholder
of two arrows Services at the number Services at the number
pointing in below, or send signed below or our automated
opposite written instructions. TeleFACTS system, or
directions] The TeleFACTS system send signed written
cannot be used to open a instructions.
BY EXCHANGE new account.
(Please see page # for (Please see page # for
TeleFACTS(R) information on information on
1-800/247-1753 exchanges.) exchanges.)
(around-the-clock
access)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON INVESTOR SERVICES P.O. BOX 997151,
SACRAMENTO, CA 95899-9983
CALL TOLL-FREE: 1-800/632-2301
(MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 5:30 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M., PACIFIC TIME
SATURDAY 6:30 A.M. TO 2:30 P.M., PACIFIC TIME)
[Insert graphic of person with a headset] INVESTOR SERVICES
AUTOMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN This plan offers a convenient way for you to
invest in the fund by automatically transferring money from your checking or
savings account each month to buy shares. The minimum investment to open an
account with an automatic investment plan is $50. To sign up, complete the
appropriate section of your account application.
AUTOMATIC PAYROLL DEDUCTION You may be able to invest automatically in Class
A shares of the fund by transferring money from your paycheck to the fund by
electronic funds transfer. If you are interested, indicate on your
application that you would like to receive an Automatic Payroll Deduction
Program kit.
DISTRIBUTION OPTIONS You may reinvest distributions you receive from the
fund in an existing account in the same share class* of the fund or another
Franklin Templeton Fund. Initial sales charges and CDSCs will not apply if
you reinvest your distributions within 365 days. You can also have your
distributions deposited in a bank account, or mailed by check. Deposits to a
bank account may be made by electronic funds transfer.
Please indicate on your application the distribution option you have chosen,
otherwise we will reinvest your distributions in the same share class of the
fund.
*Class B and C shareholders may reinvest their distributions in Class A
shares of any Franklin Templeton money fund.
TELEFACTS(R) Our TeleFACTS system offers around-the-clock access to
information about your account or any Franklin Templeton Fund. This service
is available from touch-tone phones at 1-800/247-1753. For a free TeleFACTS
brochure, call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
TELEPHONE PRIVILEGES You will automatically receive telephone privileges
when you open your account, allowing you and your investment representative
to sell or exchange your shares and make certain other changes to your
account by phone.
For accounts with more than one registered owner, telephone privileges also
allow the fund to accept written instructions signed by only one owner for
transactions and account changes that could otherwise be made by phone. For
all other transactions and changes, all registered owners must sign the
instructions.
As long as we take certain measures to verify telephone requests, we will not
be responsible for any losses that may occur from unauthorized requests. Of
course, you can decline telephone exchange or redemption privileges on your
account application.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE You can exchange shares between most Franklin Templeton
Funds within the same class*, generally without paying any additional sales
charges. If you exchange shares held for less than six months, however, you
may be charged the difference between the initial sales charge of the two
funds if the difference is more than 0.25%. If you exchange shares from a
money fund, a sales charge may apply no matter how long you have held the
shares.
[Begin callout]
An EXCHANGE is really two transactions: a sale of one fund and the purchase
of another. In general, the same policies that apply to purchases and sales
apply to exchanges, including minimum investment amounts. Exchanges also have
the same tax consequences as ordinary sales and purchases.
[End callout]
Generally exchanges may only be made between identically registered accounts,
unless you send written instructions with a signature guarantee. Any CDSC
will continue to be calculated from the date of your initial investment and
will not be charged at the time of the exchange. The purchase price for
determining a CDSC on exchanged shares will be the price you paid for the
original shares. If you exchange shares subject to a CDSC into a Class A
money fund, the time your shares are held in the money fund will not count
towards the CDSC holding period.
If you exchange your Class B shares for the same class of shares of another
Franklin Templeton Fund, the time your shares are held in that fund will
count towards the eight year period for automatic conversion to Class A
shares.
Frequent exchanges can interfere with fund management or operations and drive
up costs for all shareholders. To protect shareholders, there are limits on
the number and amount of exchanges you may make (please see "Market Timers"
on page [#]).
*Certain Class Z shareholders of Franklin Mutual Series Fund Inc. may
exchange into Class A without any sales charge. Advisor Class shareholders of
another Franklin Templeton Fund also may exchange into Class A without any
sales charge. Advisor Class shareholders who exchange their shares for Class
A shares and later decide they would like to exchange into another fund that
offers Advisor Class may do so.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN This plan allows you to automatically sell your
shares and receive regular payments from your account. A CDSC may apply to
withdrawals that exceed certain amounts. Certain terms and minimums apply. To
sign up, complete the appropriate section of your application.
[Insert graphic of a certificate] SELLING SHARES
You can sell your shares at any time.
SELLING SHARES IN WRITING Requests to sell $100,000 or less can generally be
made over the phone or with a simple letter. Sometimes, however, to protect
you and the fund we will need written instructions signed by all registered
owners, with a signature guarantee for each owner, if:
[Begin callout]
A SIGNATURE GUARANTEE helps protect your account against fraud.
You can obtain a signature guarantee at most banks and securities dealers.
A notary public CANNOT provide a signature guarantee.
[End callout]
o you are selling more than $100,000 worth of shares
o you want your proceeds paid to someone who is not a registered owner
o you want to send your proceeds somewhere other than the address of
record, or preauthorized bank or brokerage firm account
We also may require a signature guarantee on instructions we receive from an
agent, not the registered owners, or when we believe it would protect the
fund against potential claims based on the instructions received.
SELLING RECENTLY PURCHASED SHARES If you sell shares recently purchased with
a check or draft, we may delay sending you the proceeds until your check or
draft has cleared, which may take seven business days or more. A certified or
cashier's check may clear in less time.
REDEMPTION PROCEEDS Your redemption check will be sent within seven days
after we receive your request in proper form. We are not able to receive or
pay out cash in the form of currency. Redemption proceeds may be delayed if
we have not yet received your signed account application.
SELLING SHARES
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
TO SELL SOME OR ALL OF YOUR SHARES
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of
hands shaking]
Contact your investment representative
THROUGH YOUR
INVESTMENT
REPRESENTATIVE
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of Send written instructions and endorsed
envelope] share certificates (if you hold share
certificates) to Investor Services.
BY MAIL Corporate, partnership or trust
accounts may need to send additional
documents.
Specify the fund, the account number
and the dollar value or number of
shares you wish to sell. If you own
both Class A and B shares, also specify
the class of shares, otherwise we will
sell your Class A shares first. Be sure
to include all necessary signatures and
any additional documents, as well as
signature guarantees if required.
A check will be mailed to the name(s)
and address on the account, or
otherwise according to your written
instructions.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of As long as your transaction is for
phone] $100,000 or less, you do not hold share
certificates and you have not changed
BY PHONE your address by phone within the last
15 days, you can sell your shares by
1-800/632-2301 phone.
A check will be mailed to the name(s)
and address on the account. Written
instructions, with a signature
guarantee, are required to send the
check to another address or to make it
payable to another person.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of You can call or write to have
three lightning redemption proceeds of $1,000 or more
bolts] wired to a bank or escrow account. See
the policies above for selling shares
by mail or phone.
Before requesting a bank wire, please
BY WIRE make sure we have your bank account
information on file. If we do not have
this information, you will need to send
written instructions with your bank's
name and address, your bank account
number, the ABA routing number, and a
signature guarantee.
Requests received in proper form by
1:00 p.m. pacific time will be wired
the next business day.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of Obtain a current prospectus for the
two arrows pointing fund you are considering.
in opposite
directions] Call Shareholder Services at the number
below or our automated TeleFACTS
BY EXCHANGE system, or send signed written
instructions. See the policies above
TeleFACTS(R) for selling shares by mail or phone.
1-800/247-1753
(around-the-clock If you hold share certificates, you
access) will need to return them to the fund
before your exchange can be processed.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Templeton Investor Services P.O. Box 997151,
Sacramento, CA 95899-9983
Call toll-free: 1-800/632-2301
(Monday through Friday 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., pacific time
Saturday 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., pacific time)
[Insert graphic of paper and pen] ACCOUNT POLICIES
CALCULATING SHARE PRICE The fund calculates the net asset value per share
(NAV) each business day at the close of trading on the New York Stock
Exchange (normally 1:00 p.m. pacific time). Each class's NAV is calculated
by dividing its net assets by the number of its shares outstanding.
[Begin callout]
When you buy shares, you pay the offering price. The offering price is the
NAV plus any applicable sales charge.
When you sell shares, you receive the NAV minus any applicable contingent
deferred sales charge (CDSC).
[End callout]
The fund's assets are generally valued at their market value. If market
prices are unavailable, or if an event occurs after the close of the trading
market that materially affects the values, assets may be valued at their fair
value.
Requests to buy and sell shares are processed at the NAV next calculated
after we receive your request in proper form.
ACCOUNTS WITH LOW BALANCES If the value of your account falls below $250
($50 for employee and UGMA/UTMA accounts) because you sell some of your
shares, we may mail you a notice asking you to bring the account back up to
its applicable minimum investment amount. If you choose not to do so within
30 days, we may close your account and mail the proceeds to the address of
record. You will not be charged a CDSC if your account is closed for this
reason.
STATEMENTS AND REPORTS You will receive confirmations and account statements
that show your account transactions. You also will receive the fund's
financial reports every six months. To reduce fund expenses, we try to
identify related shareholders in a household and send only one copy of the
financial reports. If you need additional copies, please call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
If there is a dealer or other investment representative of record on your
account, he or she also will receive confirmations, account statements and
other information about your account directly from the fund.
STREET OR NOMINEE ACCOUNTS You may transfer your shares from the street or
nominee name account of one dealer to another, as long as both dealers have
an agreement with Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. We will process the
transfer after we receive authorization in proper form from your delivering
securities dealer.
JOINT ACCOUNTS Unless you specify a different registration, accounts with
two or more owners are registered as "joint tenants with rights of
survivorship" (shown as "Jt Ten" on your account statement). To make any
ownership changes to a joint account, all owners must agree in writing,
regardless of the law in your state.
MARKET TIMERS The fund does not allow investments by market timers. You will
be considered a market timer if you have (i) requested an exchange out of the
fund within two weeks of an earlier exchange request, or (ii) exchanged
shares out of the fund more than twice in a calendar quarter, or (iii)
exchanged shares equal to at least $5 million, or more than 1% of the fund's
net assets, or (iv) otherwise seem to follow a timing pattern. Shares under
common ownership or control are combined for these limits.
ADDITIONAL POLICIES Please note that the fund maintains additional policies
and reserves certain rights, including:
o The fund may refuse any order to buy shares, including any purchase under
the exchange privilege.
o At any time, the fund may change its investment minimums or waive or lower
its minimums for certain purchases.
o The fund may modify or discontinue the exchange privilege on 60 days'
notice.
o You may only buy shares of a fund eligible for sale in your state or
jurisdiction.
o In unusual circumstances, we may temporarily suspend redemptions, or
postpone the payment of proceeds, as allowed by federal securities laws.
o For redemptions over a certain amount, the fund reserves the right to make
payments in securities or other assets of the fund, in the case of an
emergency or if the payment by check or wire would be harmful to existing
shareholders.
o To permit investors to obtain the current price, dealers are responsible
for transmitting all orders to the fund promptly.
DEALER COMPENSATION Qualifying dealers who sell fund shares may receive
sales commissions and other payments. These are paid by Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc. (Distributors) from sales charges, distribution and
service (12b-1) fees and its other resources.
MICHIGAN FUND CLASS A
- ------------------------------------------
COMMISSION (%) ---
Investment under $100,000 4.00
$100,000 but under $250,000 3.25
$250,000 but under $500,000 2.25
$500,000 but under $1 1.85
million
$1 million or more up to 0.75 1
12B-1 FEE TO DEALER
REMAINING FUNDS CLASS B
CLASS A (HIGH YIELD CLASS C
FUND)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
COMMISSION (%) --- 3.00 2.00
Investment under $100,000 4.00 --- ---
$100,000 but under $250,000 3.25 --- ---
$250,000 but under $500,000 2.25 --- ---
$500,000 but under $1 1.85 --- ---
million
$1 million or more up to 0.75 1 --- ---
12B-1 FEE TO DEALER 0.15 2 0.65 3
A dealer commission of up to 0.25% may be paid on Class A NAV purchases by
certain trust companies and bank trust departments, eligible governmental
authorities, and broker-dealers or others on behalf of clients participating
in comprehensive fee programs.
1. During the first year after purchase, dealers may not be eligible to
receive the 12b-1 fee.
2. Dealers may be eligible to receive up to 0.15% from the date of purchase.
After 8 years, Class B shares convert to Class A shares and dealers may then
receive the 12b-1 fee applicable to Class A.
4. Dealers may be eligible to receive up to 0.15% during the first year after
purchase and may be eligible to receive the full 12b-1 fee starting in the
13th month.
[Insert graphic of question mark] QUESTIONS
If you have any questions about the fund or your account, you can write to us
at P.O. Box 997151, Sacramento, CA 95899-9983. You can also call us at one of
the following numbers. For your protection and to help ensure we provide you
with quality service, all calls may be monitored or recorded.
HOURS (PACIFIC TIME,
DEPARTMENT NAME TELEPHONE NUMBER MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Services 1-800/632-2301 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
(Saturday)
Fund Information 1-800/DIAL BEN 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
(1-800/342-5236) 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
(Saturday)
Retirement Plan
Services 1-800/527-2020 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Dealer Services 1-800/524-4040 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Institutional 1-800/321-8563 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Services
TDD (hearing 1-800/851-0637 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
impaired)
FOR MORE INFORMATION
You can learn more about each fund in the following documents:
ANNUAL/SEMIANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS
Includes a discussion of recent market conditions and fund strategies,
financial statements, detailed performance information, portfolio holdings,
and the auditor's report.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (SAI)
Contains more information about each fund, its investments and policies. It
is incorporated by reference (is legally a part of this prospectus).
For a free copy of the current annual/semiannual report or the SAI, please
contact your investment representative or call us at the number below.
FRANKLIN(R)TEMPLETON(R)
1-800/DIAL BEN(R) (1-800/342-5236)
TDD (Hearing Impaired) 1-800/851-0637
www.franklin-templeton.com
You can also obtain information about each fund by visiting the SEC's Public
Reference Room in Washington D.C. (phone 1-800/SEC-0330) or by sending your
request and a duplicating fee to the SEC's Public Reference Section,
Washington, DC 20549-6009. You can also visit the SEC's Internet site at
http://www.sec.gov.
Investment Company Act file # 811-4149 TF3 P 07/99
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST
FRANKLIN ARIZONA INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
FRANKLIN FLORIDA INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
FRANKLIN INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & CLASS C
FRANKLIN MASSACHUSETTS INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & CLASS C
FRANKLIN MICHIGAN INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & CLASS C
FRANKLIN MINNESOTA INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & CLASS C
FRANKLIN OHIO INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & CLASS C
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
JULY 1, 1999
P.O. BOX 997151
SACRAMENTO, CA 95899-9983 1-800/DIAL BEN(R)
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) is not a prospectus. It
contains information in addition to the information in the funds' prospectus.
The funds' prospectus, dated July 1, 1999, which we may amend from time to
time, contains the basic information you should know before investing in a
fund. You should read this SAI together with the funds' prospectus.
The audited financial statements and auditor's report in the trust's Annual
Report to Shareholders, for the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999, are
incorporated by reference (are legally a part of this SAI).
For a free copy of the current prospectus or annual report, contact your
investment representative or call 1-800/DIAL BEN (1-800/342-5236).
CONTENTS
Goals and Strategies
Risks
Officers and Trustees
Management and Other Services
Portfolio Transactions
Distributions and Taxes
Organization, Voting Rights and Principal Holders
Buying and Selling Shares
Pricing Shares
The Underwriter
Performance
Miscellaneous Information
Description of Ratings
State Tax Treatment
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MUTUAL FUNDS, ANNUITIES, AND OTHER INVESTMENT PRODUCTS:
o ARE NOT FEDERALLY INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION,
THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD, OR ANY OTHER AGENCY OF THE U.S. GOVERNMENT;
o ARE NOT DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS OF, OR GUARANTEED OR ENDORSED BY, ANY
BANK;
o ARE SUBJECT TO INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING THE POSSIBLE LOSS OF
PRINCIPAL.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GOALS AND STRATEGIES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Each fund's investment goal is to provide investors with as high a level of
income exempt from federal income taxes as is consistent with prudent
investing, while seeking preservation of shareholders' capital. Each state
fund also tries to provide a maximum level of income exempt from personal
income taxes, if any, for resident shareholders of the fund's state. These
goals are fundamental, which means they may not be changed without
shareholder approval. Of course, there is no assurance that any fund will
meet its goal.
As fundamental policies, each fund normally invests at least 80% of its net
assets in securities that pay interest free from federal income taxes,
including the federal alternative minimum tax and, in the case of each state
fund, at least 80% of its net assets in securities that pay interest free
from the personal income taxes, if any, of its state. As a nonfundamental
policy, each state fund also normally invests at least 65% of its total
assets in municipal securities of its state. Unlike the state funds, the
Franklin Insured Tax-Free Income Fund is diversified nationally and will not
invest more than 25% of its total assets in the municipal securities of any
one state or territory.
Municipal securities issued by a fund's state or that state's counties,
municipalities, authorities, agencies, or other subdivisions, as well as
municipal securities issued by U.S. territories such as Guam, Puerto Rico, or
the Mariana Islands, generally pay interest free from federal income tax and
from state personal income taxes, if any, for residents of the fund's state.
Each fund tries to invest all of its assets in tax-free municipal securities.
The issuer's bond counsel generally gives the issuer an opinion on the
tax-exempt status of a municipal security when the security is issued.
Some states may require a fund to invest a certain amount of its assets in
securities of that state, or in securities that are otherwise tax-free under
the laws of that state, in order for any portion of the fund's distributions
to be free from the state's personal income taxes. If a fund's state requires
this, the fund will try to invest its assets as required so that its
distributions will be free from personal income taxes for resident
shareholder's of the fund's state.
Below is a description of various types of municipal and other securities
that each fund may buy. Other types of municipal securities may become
available that are similar to those described below and in which each fund
may also invest, if consistent with its investment goal and policies.
TAX ANTICIPATION NOTES are issued to finance short-term working capital needs
of municipalities in anticipation of various seasonal tax revenues, which
will be used to pay the notes. They are usually general obligations of the
issuer, secured by the taxing power for the payment of principal and interest.
REVENUE ANTICIPATION NOTES are similar to tax anticipation notes except they
are issued in expectation of the receipt of other kinds of revenue, such as
federal revenues available under the Federal Revenue Sharing Program.
BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES are normally issued to provide interim financing
until long-term financing can be arranged. Proceeds from long-term bond
issues then provide the money for the repayment of the notes.
CONSTRUCTION LOAN NOTES are issued to provide construction financing for
specific projects. After successful completion and acceptance, many projects
receive permanent financing through the Federal Housing Administration under
the Federal National Mortgage Association or the Government National Mortgage
Association.
TAX-EXEMPT COMMERCIAL PAPER typically represents a short-term obligation (270
days or less) issued by a municipality to meet working capital needs.
MUNICIPAL BONDS meet longer-term capital needs and generally have maturities
from one to 30 years when issued. They have two principal classifications:
general obligation bonds and revenue bonds.
GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS. Issuers of general obligation bonds include states,
counties, cities, towns and regional districts. The proceeds of these
obligations are used to fund a wide range of public projects, including
construction or improvement of schools, highways and roads. The basic
security behind general obligation bonds is the issuer's pledge of its full
faith, credit and taxing power for the payment of principal and interest. The
taxes that can be levied for the payment of debt service may be limited or
unlimited as to the rate or amount of special assessments.
REVENUE BONDS. The full faith, credit and taxing power of the issuer do not
secure revenue bonds. Instead, the principal security for a revenue bond is
generally the net revenue derived from a particular facility, group of
facilities, or, in some cases, the proceeds of a special excise tax or other
specific revenue source. Revenue bonds are issued to finance a wide variety
of capital projects, including: electric, gas, water and sewer systems;
highways, bridges and tunnels; port and airport facilities; colleges and
universities; and hospitals. The principal security behind these bonds may
vary. For example, housing finance authorities have a wide range of security,
including partially or fully insured mortgages, rent subsidized and/or
collateralized mortgages, and/or the net revenues from housing or other
public projects. Many bonds provide additional security in the form of a debt
service reserve fund that may be used to make principal and interest
payments. Some authorities have further security in the form of state
assurances (although without obligation) to make up deficiencies in the debt
service reserve fund.
TAX-EXEMPT INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT REVENUE BONDS are issued by or on behalf of
public authorities to finance various privately operated facilities for
business, manufacturing, housing, sports and pollution control, as well as
public facilities such as airports, mass transit systems, ports and parking.
The payment of principal and interest is solely dependent on the ability of
the facility's user to meet its financial obligations and the pledge, if any,
of the facility or other property as security for payment.
VARIABLE OR FLOATING RATE SECURITIES Each fund may invest in variable or
floating rate securities, including variable rate demand notes, which have
interest rates that change either at specific intervals (variable rate), from
daily up to monthly, or whenever a benchmark rate changes (floating rate).
The interest rate adjustments are designed to help stabilize the security's
price. Variable or floating rate securities may include a demand feature,
which may be unconditional. The demand feature allows the holder to demand
prepayment of the principal amount before maturity, generally on no more than
30 days' notice. The holder receives the principal amount plus any accrued
interest either from the issuer or by drawing on a bank letter of credit, a
guarantee or insurance issued with respect to the security.
MUNICIPAL LEASE OBLIGATIONS Each fund may invest in municipal lease
obligations, including certificates of participation. Municipal lease
obligations generally finance the purchase of public property. The property
is leased to the state or a local government, and the lease payments are used
to pay the interest on the obligations. Municipal lease obligations differ
from other municipal securities because the lessee's governing body must
appropriate (set aside) the money to make the lease payments each year. If
the money is not appropriated, the issuer or the lessee can end the lease
without penalty. If the lease is cancelled, investors who own the municipal
lease obligations may not be paid.
The board of trustees reviews the fund's municipal lease obligations to try
to assure that they are liquid investments based on various factors reviewed
by the fund's manager and monitored by the board. These factors may include
(a) the credit quality of the obligations and the extent to which they are
rated or, if unrated, comply with existing criteria and procedures followed
to ensure that they are comparable in quality to the ratings required for the
fund to invest, including an assessment of the likelihood of the lease being
canceled, taking into account how essential the leased property is and the
term of the lease compared to the useful life of the leased property; (b) the
size of the municipal securities market, both in general and with respect to
municipal lease obligations; and (c) the extent to which the type of
municipal lease obligations held by the fund trade on the same basis and with
the same degree of dealer participation as other municipal securities of
comparable credit rating or quality.
Since annual appropriations are required to make lease payments, municipal
lease obligations generally are not subject to constitutional limitations on
the issuance of debt and may allow an issuer to increase government
liabilities beyond constitutional debt limits. When faced with increasingly
tight budgets, local governments have more discretion to curtail lease
payments under a municipal lease obligation than they do to curtail payments
on other municipal securities. If not enough money is appropriated to make
the lease payments, the leased property may be repossessed as security for
holders of the municipal lease obligations. If this happens, there is no
assurance that the property's private sector or re-leasing value will be
enough to make all outstanding payments on the municipal lease obligations or
that the payments will continue to be tax-free.
While cancellation risk is inherent to municipal lease obligations, each fund
believes that this risk may be reduced, although not eliminated, by its
policies on the quality of securities in which it may invest.
CALLABLE BONDS Each fund may invest in callable bonds, which allow the issuer
to repay some or all of the bonds ahead of schedule. If a bond is called, the
fund will receive the principal amount, the accrued interest, and may receive
a small additional payment as a call premium. The manager may sell a callable
bond before its call date, if it believes the bond is at its maximum premium
potential. When pricing callable bonds, the call feature is factored into the
price of the bonds and may impact the fund's net asset value.
An issuer is more likely to call its bonds when interest rates are falling,
because the issuer can issue new bonds with lower interest payments. If a
bond is called, the fund may have to replace it with a lower-yielding
security. A call of some or all of these securities may lower a fund's income
and its distributions to shareholders. If the fund originally paid a premium
for the bond because it had appreciated in value from its original issue
price, the fund also may not be able to recover the full amount it paid for
the bond. One way for the fund to protect itself from call risk is to buy
bonds with call protection. Call protection is an assurance that the bond
will not be called for a specific time period, typically five to 10 years
from when the bond is issued.
ESCROW-SECURED OR DEFEASED BONDS are created when an issuer refunds, before
maturity, an outstanding bond issue that is not immediately callable (or
pre-refunds), and sets aside funds for redemption of the bonds at a future
date. The issuer uses the proceeds from a new bond issue to buy high grade,
interest bearing debt securities, generally direct obligations of the U.S.
government. These securities are then deposited in an irrevocable escrow
account held by a trustee bank to secure all future payments of principal and
interest on the pre-refunded bond. Escrow-secured bonds often receive a
triple A or equivalent rating.
STRIPPED MUNICIPAL SECURITIES Municipal securities may be sold in "stripped"
form. Stripped municipal securities represent separate ownership of principal
and interest payments on municipal securities.
ZERO-COUPON SECURITIES Each fund may invest in zero-coupon and delayed
interest securities. Zero-coupon securities make no periodic interest
payments, but are sold at a deep discount from their face value. The buyer
recognizes a rate of return determined by the gradual appreciation of the
security, which is redeemed at face value on a specified maturity date. The
discount varies depending on the time remaining until maturity, as well as
market interest rates, liquidity of the security, and the issuer's perceived
credit quality. The discount, in the absence of financial difficulties of the
issuer, typically decreases as the final maturity date approaches. If the
issuer defaults, the fund may not receive any return on its investment.
Because zero-coupon securities bear no interest and compound semiannually at
the rate fixed at the time of issuance, their value is generally more
volatile than the value of other fixed-income securities. Since zero-coupon
bondholders do not receive interest payments, zero-coupon securities fall
more dramatically than bonds paying interest on a current basis when interest
rates rise. When interest rates fall, zero-coupon securities rise more
rapidly in value, because the bonds reflect a fixed rate of return.
An investment in zero-coupon and delayed interest securities may cause a fund
to recognize income and make distributions to shareholders before it receives
any cash payments on its investment. To generate cash to satisfy distribution
requirements, a fund may have to sell portfolio securities that it otherwise
would have continued to hold or to use cash flows from other sources such as
the sale of fund shares.
CONVERTIBLE AND STEP COUPON BONDS Each fund may invest a portion of its
assets in convertible and step coupon bonds. Convertible bonds are
zero-coupon securities until a predetermined date, at which time they convert
to a specified coupon security. The coupon on step coupon bonds changes
periodically during the life of the security based on predetermined dates
chosen when the security is issued.
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS are issued by the U.S. Treasury or by agencies
and instrumentalities of the U.S. government and are backed by the full faith
and credit of the U.S. government. They include Treasury bills, notes and
bonds.
COMMERCIAL PAPER is a promissory note issued by a corporation to finance its
short-term credit needs. Each fund may invest in taxable commercial paper
only for temporary defensive purposes.
WHEN-ISSUED TRANSACTIONS Municipal securities are frequently offered on a
"when-issued" basis. When so offered, the price, which is generally expressed
in yield terms, is fixed at the time the commitment to buy is made, but
delivery and payment take place at a later date. During the time between
purchase and settlement, no payment is made by the fund to the issuer and no
interest accrues to the fund. If the other party to the transaction fails to
deliver or pay for the security, the fund could miss a favorable price or
yield opportunity, or could experience a loss.
When the fund makes the commitment to buy a municipal security on a
when-issued basis, it records the transaction and reflects the value of the
security in the determination of its net asset value. The funds believe their
net asset value or income will not be negatively affected by their purchase
of municipal securities on a when-issued basis. The funds will not engage in
when-issued transactions for investment leverage purposes.
Although a fund will generally buy municipal securities on a when-issued
basis with the intention of acquiring the securities, it may sell the
securities before the settlement date if it is considered advisable. When a
fund is the buyer, it will maintain cash or liquid securities, with an
aggregate value equal to the amount of its purchase commitments, in a
segregated account with its custodian bank until payment is made. If assets
of a fund are held in cash pending the settlement of a purchase of
securities, the fund will not earn income on those assets.
ILLIQUID INVESTMENTS Each fund may invest up to 10% of its net assets in
illiquid securities. Illiquid securities are generally securities that cannot
be sold within seven days in the normal course of business at approximately
the amount at which the fund has valued them.
DIVERSIFICATION All of the funds, except the Arizona and Florida Funds, are
diversified funds. The Arizona and Florida Funds are non-diversified. As a
fundamental policy, none of the diversified funds will buy a security if,
with respect to 75% of its net assets, more than 5% would be in the
securities of any single issuer (with the exception of obligations of the
U.S. government). For this purpose, each political subdivision, agency, or
instrumentality, each multi-state agency of which a state is a member, and
each public authority that issues private activity bonds on behalf of a
private entity, is considered a separate issuer. Escrow-secured or defeased
bonds are not generally considered an obligation of the original municipality
when determining diversification.
Each fund, including the Arizona and Florida Funds, intends to meet certain
diversification requirements for tax purposes. Generally, to meet federal tax
requirements at the close of each quarter, a fund may not invest more than
25% of its total assets in any one issuer and, with respect to 50% of total
assets, may not invest more than 5% of its total assets in any one issuer.
These limitations do not apply to U.S. government securities and may be
revised if applicable federal income tax requirements are revised.
TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS When the manager believes the securities trading
markets or the economy are experiencing excessive volatility or a prolonged
general decline, or other unusual or adverse conditions exist, it may invest
each fund's portfolio in a temporary defensive manner. Under these
circumstances, each fund may invest all of its assets in securities that pay
taxable interest, including (i) high quality commercial paper; (ii)
securities issued by or guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the U.S.
government; or (iii) for the state funds, municipal securities issued by a
state or local government other than the fund's state. Each fund also may
invest all of its assets in municipal securities issued by a U.S. territory
such as Guam, Puerto Rico or the Mariana Islands.
SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS The frequency of portfolio transactions, usually
referred to as the portfolio turnover rate, varies for each fund from year to
year, depending on market conditions. While short-term trading increases
portfolio turnover and may increase costs, the execution costs for municipal
securities are substantially less than for equivalent dollar values of equity
securities.
CREDIT QUALITY All things being equal, the lower a security's credit quality,
the higher the risk and the higher the yield the security generally must pay
as compensation to investors for the higher risk.
A security's credit quality depends on the issuer's ability to pay interest
on the security and, ultimately, to repay the principal. Independent rating
agencies, such as Fitch Investors Service Inc. (Fitch), Moody's Investors
Service, Inc. (Moody's), and Standard & Poor's Corporation (S&P), often rate
municipal securities based on their opinion of the issuer's credit quality.
Most rating agencies use a descending alphabet scale to rate long-term
securities, and a descending numerical scale to rate short-term securities.
These ratings are described at the end of this SAI under "Description of
Ratings."
An insurance company, bank or other foreign or domestic entity may provide
credit support for a municipal security and enhance its credit quality. For
example, some municipal securities are insured, which means they are covered
by an insurance policy that guarantees the timely payment of principal and
interest. Other municipal securities may be backed by letters of credit,
guarantees, or escrow or trust accounts that contain securities backed by the
full faith and credit of the U.S. government to secure the payment of
principal and interest.
As discussed in the prospectus, each fund has limitations on the credit
quality of securities it may buy. These limitations are generally applied
when a fund makes an investment so that a fund is not required to sell a
security because of a later change in circumstances.
INSURANCE Each fund invests primarily in insured municipal securities.
Normally, the underlying rating of an insured security is one of the top
three ratings of Fitch, Moody's or S&P. An insurer may insure municipal
securities that are rated below the top three ratings or that are unrated if
the securities otherwise meet the insurer's quality standards.
A fund will only enter into a contract to buy an insured municipal security
if either permanent insurance or an irrevocable commitment to insure the
municipal security by a qualified municipal bond insurer is in place. The
insurance feature guarantees the scheduled payment of principal and interest,
but does not guarantee (i) the market value of the insured municipal
security, (ii) the value of a fund's shares, or (iii) a fund's distributions.
TYPES OF INSURANCE. There are three types of insurance: new issue, secondary
and portfolio. A new issue insurance policy is purchased by the issuer when
the security is issued. A secondary insurance policy may be purchased by the
fund after a security is issued. With both new issue and secondary policies,
the insurance continues in force for the life of the security and, thus, may
increase the credit rating of the security, as well as its resale value.
Each fund may buy a secondary insurance policy at any time, if the manager
believes the insurance would be in the best interest of the fund. A fund is
likely to buy a secondary insurance policy if, in the manager's opinion, the
fund could sell a security at a price that exceeds the current value of the
security, without insurance, plus the cost of the insurance. The purchase of
a secondary policy, if available, may enable the fund to sell a defaulted
security at a price similar to that of comparable securities that are not in
default. The fund would value a defaulted security covered by a secondary
insurance policy at its market value.
Each fund also may buy a portfolio insurance policy. Unlike new issue and
secondary insurance, which continue in force for the life of the security,
portfolio insurance only covers securities while they are held by the fund.
If the fund sells a security covered by portfolio insurance, the insurance
protection on that security ends and, thus, cannot affect the resale value of
the security. As a result, the fund may continue to hold any security insured
under a portfolio insurance policy that is in default or in significant risk
of default and, absent any unusual or unforeseen circumstances as a result of
the portfolio insurance policy, would likely value the defaulted security, or
security for which there is a significant risk of default, at the same price
as comparable securities that are not in default. While a defaulted security
is held in the fund's portfolio, the fund continues to pay the insurance
premium on the security but also collects interest payments from the insurer
and retains the right to collect the full amount of principal from the
insurer when the security comes due.
The insurance premium the fund pays for a portfolio insurance policy is a
fund expense. The premium is payable monthly and is adjusted for purchases
and sales of covered securities during the month. If the fund fails to pay
its premium, the insurer may take action against the fund to recover any
premium payments that are due. The insurer may not change premium rates for
securities covered by a portfolio insurance policy, regardless of the
issuer's ability or willingness to meet its obligations.
QUALIFIED MUNICIPAL BOND INSURERS. Insurance policies may be issued by any
one of several qualified municipal bond insurers. Each fund buys insured
municipal securities only if they are secured by an insurance policy issued
by an insurer whose claims paying ability is rated triple A or its equivalent
by Fitch, Moody's or S&P. Currently, there are four primary, triple A rated
municipal bond insurers.
The bond insurance industry is a regulated industry. All bond insurers must
be licensed in each state in order to write financial guarantees in that
jurisdiction. Regulations vary from state to state. Most regulators, however,
require minimum standards of solvency and limitations on leverage and
investment of assets. Regulators also place restrictions on the amount an
insurer can guarantee in relation to the insurer's capital base. Neither the
funds nor the manager makes any representations as to the ability of any
insurance company to meet its obligation to a fund if called upon to do so.
Currently, to the best of our knowledge, there are no securities in the
funds' portfolios on which an insurer is paying the principal or interest
otherwise payable by the issuer of the bond.
If an insurer is called upon to pay the prinicpal or interest on an insured
security that is due for payment but that has not been paid by the issuer,
the terms of payment would be governed by the provisions of the insurance
policy. After payment, the insurer becomes the owner of the security,
appurtenant coupon, or right to payment of principal or interest on the
security and is fully subrogated to all of the fund's rights with respect to
the security, including the right to payment. The insurer's rights to the
security or to payment of principal or interest are limited, however, to the
amount the insurer has paid.
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS Each fund has adopted the following restrictions as
fundamental policies. This means they may only be changed if the change is
approved by (i) more than 50% of the fund's outstanding shares or (ii) 67% or
more of the fund's shares present at a shareholder meeting if more than 50%
of the fund's outstanding shares are represented at the meeting in person or
by proxy, whichever is less.
Each fund may not:
1. Borrow money or mortgage or pledge any of its assets, except that
borrowings (and a pledge of assets therefore) for temporary or emergency
purposes may be made from banks in any amount up to 5% of the total asset
value.
2. Buy any securities on "margin" or sell any securities "short," except that
it may use such short-term credits as are necessary for the clearance of
transactions.
3. Make loans, except through the purchase of readily marketable debt
securities which are either publicly distributed or customarily purchased by
institutional investors. Although such loans are not presently intended, this
prohibition will not preclude the fund from loaning portfolio securities to
broker-dealers or other institutional investors if at least 102% cash
collateral is pledged and maintained by the borrower; provided such portfolio
security loans may not be made if, as a result, the aggregate of such loans
exceeds 10% of the value of the fund's total assets at the time of the most
recent loan.
4. Act as underwriter of securities issued by other persons, except insofar
as the fund may be technically deemed an underwriter under the federal
securities laws in connection with the disposition of portfolio securities.
5. Purchase the securities of any issuer which would result in owning more
than 10% of the voting securities of such issuer, except with respect to the
Arizona and Florida Funds, each of which will not purchase a security, if as
a result: i) more than 25% of its total assets would be invested in the
securities of a single issuer or ii) with respect to 50% of its total assets,
more than 5% of its assets would be invested in the securities of a single
issuer.
6. Purchase securities from or sell to the trust's officers and trustees, or
any firm of which any officer or trustee is a member, as principal, or retain
securities of any issuer if, to the knowledge of the trust, one or more of
the trust's officers, trustees, or investment manager own beneficially more
than one-half of 1% of the securities of such issuer and all such officers
and trustees together own beneficially more than 5% of such securities.
7. Acquire, lease or hold real estate, except such as may be necessary or
advisable for the maintenance of its offices and provided that this
limitation shall not prohibit the purchase of municipal and other debt
securities secured by real estate or interests therein.
8. Invest in commodities and commodity contracts, puts, calls, straddles,
spreads or any combination thereof, or interests in oil, gas, or other
mineral exploration or development programs, except that it may purchase,
hold and dispose of "obligations with puts attached" in accordance with its
investment policies.
9. Invest in companies for the purpose of exercising control or management.
10. Purchase securities of other investment companies, except in connection
with a merger, consolidation, acquisition or reorganization, except to the
extent permitted by exemptions which may be granted under the Investment
Company Act of 1940, which allows the fund to invest in shares of one or more
investment companies, of the type generally referred to as money market
funds, managed by Franklin Advisers, Inc. or its affiliates.
11. In the case of the Arizona and Florida Funds, purchase securities, in
private placements or in other transactions, for which there are legal or
contractual restrictions on resale.
12. Invest more than 25% of its assets in securities of any industry;
although for purposes of this limitation, tax-exempt securities and U.S.
government obligations are not considered to be part of any industry.
If a bankruptcy or other extraordinary event occurs concerning a particular
security the fund owns, the fund may receive stock, real estate, or other
investments that the fund would not, or could not, buy. If this happens, the
fund intends to sell such investments as soon as practicable while maximizing
the return to shareholders.
If a percentage restriction is met at the time of investment, a later
increase or decrease in the percentage due to a change in the value or
liquidity of portfolio securities or the amount of assets will not be
considered a violation of any of the foregoing restrictions.
RISKS
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STATE Since each state fund mainly invests in the municipal securities of its
state, its performance is closely tied to the ability of issuers of municipal
securities in its state to continue to make principal and interest payments
on their securities. The issuers' ability to do this is in turn dependent on
economic, political and other conditions within the state. Below is a
discussion of certain conditions that may affect municipal issuers in the
funds' various states. It is not a complete analysis of every material fact
that may affect the ability of issuers of municipal securities to meet their
debt obligations or the economic or political conditions within any state and
is subject to change. The information below is based on data available to the
funds from historically reliable sources, but the funds have not
independently verified it.
The ability of issuers of municipal securities to continue to make principal
and interest payments is dependent in large part on their ability to raise
revenues, primarily through taxes, and to control spending. Many factors can
affect a state's revenues including the rate of population growth,
unemployment rates, personal income growth, federal aid, and the ability to
attract and keep successful businesses. A number of factors can also affect a
state's spending including current debt levels, and the existence of
accumulated budget deficits. The following provides some information on these
and other factors.
ARIZONA. A cost of living below the national average and competitive wage
rates have attracted people and businesses to Arizona, especially from
California. As a result, Arizona's population grew by more than 15% during
the first half of the 1990s. Although population growth is expected to remain
strong, the rate of growth has slowed since 1996 as a result of California's
economic recovery and thus less migration from that state. Employment growth
has also been strong, at 5.6% in 1996. Driven recently by gains in the
high-tech manufacturing sector, employment growth is expected to remain solid
over the near-term. Unemployment was 4.7% in May 1997, slightly less than the
national average.
Arizona's economy has continued its shift away from agriculture and mining
and towards manufacturing and services. The move away from farming, which
generally consumes about 80% of the water used in the state, may increase the
water available for municipal uses. As of July 1997, manufacturing accounted
for approximately 9.3% of the state's total employment, trade 23%, services
30%, government 13%, construction 6% and finance, insurance and real estate
8%.
Under its constitution, Arizona is not allowed to issue general obligation
debt. Thus, gross state debt levels have remained moderate. The state has
historically relied on lease obligations, revenue bonds, and pay-as-you-go
financing for its capital needs. A significant portion of the state's debt
has been supported by motor fuel taxes and highway user fees.
Recently, Arizona's strong economic growth has enabled the state to replenish
its general fund, while at the same time cutting taxes. At the end of fiscal
1996, the general fund had a balance of 12.6% of expenditures, up from 6.9%
at the end of fiscal 1995. Due to higher-than-anticipated income tax
receipts, the state expects the general fund balance will remain strong
through fiscal 1998. In addition, the state's budget stabilization fund held
$252 million as of July 1997, which may help provide protection in an
economic downturn.
Despite periods of financial stress during the 1980s and early 1990s, the
state's financial outlook is generally considered stable.
FLORIDA. Employment and population have grown steadily in Florida since 1991,
and Florida's economic expansion has been among the strongest in the region,
as well as the nation. Florida's population growth has placed increased
demands on government services and the state's infrastructure, but so far the
state has been able to meet these challenges.
Florida's economy has continued to diversify, moving from a relatively narrow
base of agriculture and seasonal tourism towards a service and trade economy.
Job growth has been steady, with an unemployment rate of 4.6% in April 1997,
below the national rate of 4.8%. The state's job growth has been dependent on
growth in the services, construction and trade sectors, with the state's
business services sector accounting for approximately 30% of new non-farm
employment since 1991. Much of this growth has come from growth in the
personnel services sector, however, which typically represents low paying
jobs. The state's tourism industry, which has supported the state's other
employment sectors, has been somewhat erratic since the recession in the
early 1990s. A tourism increase of 3.1% is expected, however, through fiscal
1998.
Due in large part to the state's healthy economy, Florida's population has
also continued to grow. It was recently the fourth most populated state in
the U.S. Its per capita income, while close to the national average, exceeded
regional levels by almost 11% as of April 1997. Because of its substantial
retirement age population, however, its income structure is dependent on
property income and transfer payments, such as social security and pension
benefits. As a result, a change to the consumer price index at the federal
level could have a significant impact on the state.
Florida's tax base has been relatively narrow, with 70% of its revenues
derived from the state's sales and use tax. This reliance on a cyclical
revenue source creates some vulnerability, as does the constitutional
amendment approved by voters in 1994 that limits the rate of growth in state
revenues. It should be noted, however, that this amendment exempts revenues
pledged to bonds, so existing and new debt issues should be unaffected.
Although Florida's debt levels have been steadily rising, in recent years the
state has generated operating surpluses, while maintaining tax levels and
providing funds for the state's growth in government services. Overall, the
state's financial outlook is considered stable.
MASSACHUSETTS. Massachusetts' economy has continued to recover from the
national and regional recessions of the early 1990s. While manufacturing has
declined, the state's services sector has grown and recently accounted for
35% of the state's employment. Overall, the state's economic growth has been
driven by growth in its high-tech industries, financial services, education
and health care. In fact, high-tech industries recently accounted for 9.2% of
total employment, the highest concentration of any state. The state's
unemployment rate has steadily declined from 4.3% in 1996 to 3.3% in October
1997, below the national average, and has begun to cause concerns about a
tight labor market.
Although the state's economy has improved, its debt levels have remained
among the highest in the nation. Spending disciplines imposed during the
state's severe financial difficulties in the early 1990s have helped and have
resulted in seven consecutive years of balanced financial operations. At the
same time, the state has greatly reduced its reliance on temporary borrowing.
While the state has regained some control over its budget, continuing
expenditure pressures may present fiscal challenges. After a period of
restrained debt issuance, pressure to increase borrowing has been building.
Funding for routine infrastructure needs and a costly tunnel project have
been the focus of this pressure. Spending for education is also expected to
increase, and the state still has a relatively high unfunded pension
liability. With the rate of economic growth expected to slow down in coming
years, Massachusetts' biggest challenge is likely to be the long term
management of its capital and debt plans.
MICHIGAN. Michigan's economy has continued to rely on national economic
trends, especially the demand for durable goods. Its economic base has been
dependent on its manufacturing sector, which recently accounted for 33% of
the state's total personal income. While this sector has been strong since
the end of the national recession in the early 1990s, the state's reliance on
manufacturing has made its economy potentially more volatile than the
economies of more diverse states. In recent years, however, the state has
made some improvements in the diversity of its economy.
Michigan's finances have also improved since the early 1990s when the state's
financial position was weakened by the national recession and imbalances in
the budget. Tighter budget controls and the positive effect on revenues of
the state's relatively strong economy have allowed the state to replenish
reserves, which had been severely depleted during the early 1990s. The
state's budget stabilization fund was estimated at more than $1.2 billion at
September 30, 1997. Michigan may need the increased stability these reserve
levels provide to offset higher school funding requirements, which were
estimated at $8.6 billion in fiscal 1997 and represented the largest expense
item for the state.
MINNESOTA. Minnesota's economy has been well diversified, with only some
concentration in the manufacturing sector. This diversification has allowed
the state to perform well during economic cycles, compared with the rest of
the nation. The effects of the last national recession were less severe in
Minnesota, and the state was able to recover more quickly than many other
states.
Since late 1994, Minnesota has experienced steady job growth with increases
in computer and business services and in the finance sector. Much of this
growth has occurred in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area and has
created labor shortages in some industries. These shortages have in turn
resulted in higher-than-average wage levels. Higher wages, together with a
tight labor market, could limit future job expansion in the state.
Minnesota's debt burden has been moderate and its financial position strong.
The recent strength of its economy and growth in revenues have allowed the
state to restore its general fund and reserve levels, which had been drained
during the recession of the early 1990s. In the coming years, key spending
areas for the state are expected to include corrections, human services,
education and facilities for general government.
OHIO. Ohio's financial performance has been historically strong, aided
recently by the continuing diversification of the state's economy. Although
manufacturing has remained a large part of the economy, the state's overall
employment mix has moved more in line with that of the nation. While
benefiting from the recent strength of its manufacturing sector, growth in
financial services, distribution and trade have improved the state's economic
stability. Nonetheless, the state's reliance on manufacturing creates
vulnerability to recession and potential financial volatility. The state's
sizable financial reserves, however, may lend some stability and help protect
the state against future spending pressures and economic cycles.
In recent years, Ohio's employment growth has slowed to below the national
average. For the year ended August 1997, non-farm job growth was 0.8%,
compared to 2% for the nation. Much of this growth has been concentrated in
the services and trade sectors. Unemployment was 4.2% in October 1997, below
the national rate.
Ohio's direct debt levels have been moderate. As a result, debt service
payments on its general obligation debt and lease obligations have been
manageable. The state enjoyed large operating surpluses in fiscal years 1995
and 1996, and a somewhat smaller surplus in fiscal 1997.
U.S. TERRITORIES Since each fund may invest a portion of its assets in
municipal securities issued by U.S. territories, the ability of municipal
issuers in U.S. territories to continue to make principal and interest
payments also may affect a fund's performance. As with state municipal
issuers, the ability to make these payments is dependent on economic,
political and other conditions. Below is a discussion of certain conditions
within some of the territories where the funds may be invested. It is not a
complete analysis of every material fact that may affect the ability of
issuers of U.S. territory municipal securities to meet their debt obligations
or the economic or political conditions within the territories and is subject
to change. It is based on data available to the funds from historically
reliable sources, but it has not been independently verified by the funds.
GUAM. Guam's economy has been heavily dependent on its tourism industry,
which accounted for almost 40% of total employment in 1997. It has been
especially dependent on Japanese tourism, which has made Guam vulnerable to
fluctuations in the relationship between the U.S. dollar and the Japanese yen.
In the early to mid-1990s, Guam's financial position deteriorated due to a
series of natural disasters that led to increased spending on top of already
significant budget gaps. As a result, the government introduced a
comprehensive financial plan in June 1995 to help balance the budget and
reduce the general fund deficit by fiscal 1999. As of fiscal 1997, the
deficit had improved and the budget was balanced.
While Guam's debt burden has been manageable, Guam's ability to maintain
current debt levels may be challenged in the near future. U.S. military
downsizing has reduced the federal presence on the island and also may reduce
federal support for infrastructure projects. At the same time, Guam has faced
increasing pressure to improve its infrastructure to help generate economic
development.
Overall, as of October 1997, S&P's outlook for Guam was negative due to
Guam's continued weak financial position and the need for continued political
support towards the goals of the financial plan.
MARIANA ISLANDS. The Mariana Islands became a commonwealth in 1975. At that
time, the U.S. government agreed to exempt the islands from federal minimum
wage and immigration laws in an effort to help stimulate industry and the
economy. The islands' minimum wage has been more than $2 per hour below the
U.S. level and tens of thousands of workers have immigrated from various
Asian countries to provide cheap labor for the islands' industries. Recently,
the islands' tourism and apparel industries combined to help increase gross
business receipts from $224 million in 1985 to $2 billion in 1996.
PUERTO RICO. Overall, Moody's considered Puerto Rico's outlook stable as of
January 1999. In recent years, Puerto Rico's financial performance has
improved. Relatively strong revenue growth and more aggressive tax collection
procedures resulted in a general fund surplus for fiscal 1998 (unaudited).
For fiscal 1999, spending increases of 11% are budgeted, which may create an
operating deficit and deplete the commonwealth's unreserved fund balance.
Puerto Rico's debt levels have been high. Going forward, these levels may
increase as Puerto Rico attempts to finance significant capital and
infrastructure improvements. Puerto Rico will also need to address its large
unfunded pension liability of more than $6 billion.
Despite Puerto Rico's stable outlook, Puerto Rico may face challenges in the
coming years with the 1996 passage of a bill eliminating section 936 of the
Internal Revenue Code. This section has given certain U.S. corporations
operating in Puerto Rico significant tax advantages. These incentives have
helped considerably with Puerto Rico's economic growth, especially with the
development of its manufacturing sector. U.S. firms that have benefited from
these incentives have provided a significant portion of Puerto Rico's
revenues, employment and deposits in local financial institutions. The
section 936 incentives will be phased out over a 10-year period ending in
2006. It is hoped that this long phase-out period will give Puerto Rico
sufficient time to lessen the potentially negative effects of section 936's
elimination. Outstanding issues relating to the potential for a transition to
statehood also may have broad implications for Puerto Rico and its financial
and credit position.
OFFICERS AND TRUSTEES
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The trust has a board of trustees. The board is responsible for the overall
management of the trust, including general supervision and review of each
fund's investment activities. The board, in turn, elects the officers of the
trust who are responsible for administering the trust's day-to-day
operations. The board also monitors each fund to ensure no material conflicts
exist among share classes. While none is expected, the board will act
appropriately to resolve any material conflict that may arise.
The name, age and address of the officers and board members, as well as their
affiliations, positions held with the trust, and principal occupations during
the past five years are shown below.
Frank H. Abbott, III (78)
1045 Sansome Street, San Francisco, CA 94111
TRUSTEE
President and Director, Abbott Corporation (an investment company); director
or trustee, as the case may be, of 27 of the investment companies in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY, Director, MotherLode Gold
Mines Consolidated (gold mining) and Vacu-Dry Co. (food processing).
Harris J. Ashton (67)
191 Clapboard Ridge Road, Greenwich, CT 06830
TRUSTEE
Director, RBC Holdings, Inc. (bank holding company) and Bar-S Foods (meat
packing company); director or trustee, as the case may be, of 48 of the
investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY,
President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, General Host
Corporation (nursery and craft centers).
S. Joseph Fortunato (66)
Park Avenue at Morris County, P.O. Box 1945
Morristown, NJ 07962-1945
TRUSTEE
Member of the law firm of Pitney, Hardin, Kipp & Szuch; director or trustee,
as the case may be, of 50 of the investment companies in the Franklin
Templeton Group of Funds.
Edith E. Holiday (47)
3239 38th Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20016
TRUSTEE
Director, Amerada Hess Corporation (exploration and refining of natural gas)
(1993-present), Hercules Incorporated (chemicals, fibers and resins)
(1993-present), Beverly Enterprises, Inc. (health care) (1995-present) and
H.J. Heinz Company (processed foods and allied products) (1994-present);
director or trustee, as the case may be, of 24 of the investment companies in
the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY, Chairman (1995-1997) and
Trustee (1993-1997), National Child Research Center, Assistant to the
President of the United States and Secretary of the Cabinet (1990-1993),
General Counsel to the United States Treasury Department (1989-1990), and
Counselor to the Secretary and Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs and
Public Liaison-United States Treasury Department (1988-1989).
*Charles B. Johnson (66)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND TRUSTEE
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc.;
Chairman of the Board and Director, Franklin Advisers, Inc., Franklin
Investment Advisory Services, Inc. and Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc.;
Director, Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc. and Franklin Templeton
Services, Inc.; officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of
most of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 49 of the
investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
*Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. (58)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
PRESIDENT AND TRUSTEE
Executive Vice President and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc. and Franklin
Templeton Distributors, Inc.; President and Director, Franklin Advisers, Inc.
and Franklin Investment Advisory Services, Inc.; Senior Vice President,
Franklin Advisory Services, LLC; Director, Franklin/Templeton Investor
Services, Inc.; and officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be,
of most of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 52 of
the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Frank W.T. LaHaye (70)
20833 Stevens Creek Blvd., Suite 102, Cupertino, CA 95014
TRUSTEE
General Partner, Miller & LaHaye, which is the General Partner of Peregrine
Ventures II (venture capital firm); director or trustee, as the case may be,
of 27 of the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds;
and FORMERLY, Director, Fischer Imaging Corporation (medical imaging
systems), Digital Transmission Systems, Inc. (wireless communications) and
Quarterdeck Corporation (software firm), and General Partner, Peregrine
Associates, which was the General Partner of Peregrine Ventures (venture
capital firm).
Gordon S. Macklin (70)
8212 Burning Tree Road, Bethesda, MD 20817
TRUSTEE
Director, Fund American Enterprises Holdings, Inc. (holding company), Martek
Biosciences Corporation, MCI WorldCom (information services), MedImmune, Inc.
(biotechnology), Spacehab, Inc. (aerospace services) and Real 3D (software);
director or trustee, as the case may be, of 48 of the investment companies in
the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY, Chairman, White River
Corporation (financial services) and Hambrecht and Quist Group (investment
banking), and President, National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
Harmon E. Burns (54)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT
Executive Vice President and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc., Franklin
Templeton Distributors, Inc. and Franklin Templeton Services, Inc.; Executive
Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Director, Franklin Investment
Advisory Services, Inc. and Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc.; and
officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of most of the other
subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 52 of the investment
companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Martin L. Flanagan (39)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Franklin Resources, Inc.,
Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc. and Franklin Mutual Advisers, LLC;
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Director, Templeton
Worldwide, Inc.; Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and
Director, Templeton Investment Counsel, Inc.; Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Chief Financial Officer,
Franklin Advisory Services, LLC and Franklin Investment Advisory Services,
Inc.; President and Director, Franklin Templeton Services, Inc.; officer
and/or director of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources,
Inc.; and officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of 52 of
the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Deborah R. Gatzek (50)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT AND SECRETARY
Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Franklin Resources, Inc.; Senior
Vice President, Franklin Templeton Services, Inc. and Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc.; Executive Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Vice
President, Franklin Advisory Services, LLC and Franklin Mutual Advisers, LLC;
Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Chief Operating Officer, Franklin
Investment Advisory Services, Inc.; and officer of 53 of the investment
companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Thomas J. Kenny (36)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT
Executive Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; and officer of eight of
the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Diomedes Loo-Tam (60)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
TREASURER AND PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING OFFICER
Senior Vice President, Franklin Templeton Services, Inc.; and officer of 32
of the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Edward V. McVey (61)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT
Senior Vice President and National Sales Manager, Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc.; and officer of 28 of the investment companies in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
*This board member is considered an "interested person" under federal
securities laws.
Note: Charles B. Johnson and Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. are brothers
The trust pays noninterested board members $1,450 per month plus $1,300 per
meeting attended. Board members who serve on the audit committee of the trust
and other funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds receive a flat fee
of $2,000 per committee meeting attended, a portion of which is allocated to
the trust. Members of a committee are not compensated for any committee
meeting held on the day of a board meeting. Noninterested board members also
may serve as directors or trustees of other funds in the Franklin Templeton
Group of Funds and may receive fees from these funds for their services. The
fees payable to noninterested board members by the trust are subject to
reductions resulting from fee caps limiting the amount of fees payable to
board members who serve on other boards within the Franklin Templeton Group
of Funds. The following table provides the total fees paid to noninterested
board members by the trust and by the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
NUMBER OF BOARDS
TOTAL FEES IN THE FRANKLIN
TOTAL FEES RECEIVED FROM TEMPLETON GROUP
RECEIVED THE FRANKLIN OF FUNDS ON
FROM THE TEMPLETON GROUP WHICH EACH
NAME TRUST 1 OF FUNDS 2 Serves 3
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Frank H. Abbott, III $25,675 $159,051 27
Harris J. Ashton 26,390 361,157 48
S. Joseph Fortunato 25,097 367,835 50
Edith E. Holiday 28,650 211,400 24
Frank W.T. LaHaye 26,975 163,753 27
Gordon S. Macklin 26,390 361,157 48
1. For the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999. During the period from
February 28, 1998, through May 31, 1998, fees at the rate of $1,300 per month
plus $1,300 per board meeting attended were in effect.
2. For the calendar year ended December 31, 1998.
3. We base the number of boards on the number of registered investment
companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. This number does not
include the total number of series or funds within each investment company
for which the board members are responsible. The Franklin Templeton Group of
Funds currently includes 54 registered investment companies, with
approximately 163 U.S. based funds or series.
Noninterested board members are reimbursed for expenses incurred in
connection with attending board meetings, paid pro rata by each fund in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds for which they serve as director or
trustee. No officer or board member received any other compensation,
including pension or retirement benefits, directly or indirectly from the
fund or other funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Certain
officers or board members who are shareholders of Franklin Resources, Inc.
may be deemed to receive indirect remuneration by virtue of their
participation, if any, in the fees paid to its subsidiaries.
Board members historically have followed a policy of having substantial
investments in one or more of the funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of
Funds, as is consistent with their individual financial goals. In February
1998, this policy was formalized through adoption of a requirement that each
board member invest one-third of fees received for serving as a director or
trustee of a Templeton fund in shares of one or more Templeton funds and
one-third of fees received for serving as a director or trustee of a Franklin
fund in shares of one or more Franklin funds until the value of such
investments equals or exceeds five times the annual fees paid such board
member. Investments in the name of family members or entities controlled by a
board member constitute fund holdings of such board member for purposes of
this policy, and a three year phase-in period applies to such investment
requirements for newly elected board members. In implementing such policy, a
board member's fund holdings existing on February 27, 1998, are valued as of
such date with subsequent investments valued at cost.
MANAGEMENT AND OTHER SERVICES
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MANAGER AND SERVICES PROVIDED The funds' manager is Franklin Advisers, Inc.
The manager is a wholly owned subsidiary of Franklin Resources, Inc.
(Resources), a publicly owned company engaged in the financial services
industry through its subsidiaries. Charles B. Johnson and Rupert H. Johnson,
Jr. are the principal shareholders of Resources.
The manager provides investment research and portfolio management services,
and selects the securities for the fund to buy, hold or sell. The manager's
extensive research activities include, as appropriate, traveling to meet with
issuers and to review project sites. The manager also selects the brokers who
execute the fund's portfolio transactions. The manager provides periodic
reports to the board, which reviews and supervises the manager's investment
activities. To protect the fund, the manager and its officers, directors and
employees are covered by fidelity insurance.
The manager and its affiliates manage numerous other investment companies and
accounts. The manager may give advice and take action with respect to any of
the other funds it manages, or for its own account, that may differ from
action taken by the manager on behalf of the fund. Similarly, with respect to
the fund, the manager is not obligated to recommend, buy or sell, or to
refrain from recommending, buying or selling any security that the manager
and access persons, as defined by applicable federal securities laws, may buy
or sell for its or their own account or for the accounts of any other fund.
The manager is not obligated to refrain from investing in securities held by
the fund or other funds it manages. Of course, any transactions for the
accounts of the manager and other access persons will be made in compliance
with the fund's code of ethics.
Under the fund's code of ethics, employees of the Franklin Templeton Group
who are access persons may engage in personal securities transactions subject
to the following general restrictions and procedures: (i) the trade must
receive advance clearance from a compliance officer and must be completed by
the close of the business day following the day clearance is granted; (ii)
copies of all brokerage confirmations and statements must be sent to a
compliance officer; (iii) all brokerage accounts must be disclosed on an
annual basis; and (iv) access persons involved in preparing and making
investment decisions must, in addition to (i), (ii) and (iii) above, file
annual reports of their securities holdings each January and inform the
compliance officer (or other designated personnel) if they own a security
that is being considered for a fund or other client transaction or if they
are recommending a security in which they have an ownership interest for
purchase or sale by a fund or other client.
MANAGEMENT FEES The fund pays the manager a fee equal to a monthly rate of:
o 5/96 of 1% of the value of net assets up to and including $100 million;
o 1/24 of 1% of the value of net assets over $100 million and not over
$250 million; and
o 9/240 of 1% of the value of net assets in excess of $250 million.
The fee is computed at the close of business on the last business day of each
month according to the terms of the management agreement. Each class of the
fund's shares pays its proportionate share of the fee.
For the last three fiscal years ended February 28, the funds paid the
following management fees:
MANAGEMENT FEES PAID ($)
1999 1998 1997
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Arizona Fund .................. 129,625 1 53,600 1 9,209 1
Florida Fund .................. 279,543 1 164,237 1 126,611 1
Insured Fund ..................8,186,468 7,894,099 7,848,890
Massachusetts Fund ............1,842,232 1,792,766 1,649,833
Michigan Fund .................5,623,372 5,414,427 5,284,581
Minnesota Fund ................2,591,321 2,465,946 2,439,817
Ohio Fund......................3,822,228 3,586,169 3,391,314
1. For the fiscal years ended February 28, 1999, 1998 and 1997, management
fees, before any advance waiver, totaled $444,848, $300,020 and $238,269,
respectively, for the Arizona Fund, and $697,080, $559,377 and $447,534,
respectively, for the Florida Fund. Under an agreement by Advisers to limit
its fees, the Arizona and Florida Funds paid the management fees shown.
ADMINISTRATOR AND SERVICES PROVIDED Franklin Templeton Services, Inc. (FT
Services) has an agreement with the manager to provide certain administrative
services and facilities for the fund. FT Services is wholly owned by
Resources and is an affiliate of the fund's manager and principal
underwriter.
The administrative services FT Services provides include preparing and
maintaining books, records, and tax and financial reports, and monitoring
compliance with regulatory requirements.
ADMINISTRATION FEES The manager pays FT Services a monthly fee equal to an
annual rate of:
o 0.15% of the fund's average daily net assets up to $200 million;
o 0.135% of average daily net assets over $200 million up to $700 million;
o 0.10% of average daily net assets over $700 million up to $1.2 billion;
and
o 0.075% of average daily net assets over $1.2 billion.
During the last three fiscal years ended February 28, the manager paid FT
Services the following administration fees:
ADMINISTRATION FEES PAID ($)
1999 1998 1997 1
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Arizona Fund ............ 95,511 70,517 23,726
Florida Fund ............ 163,571 132,554 46,588
Insured Fund ............ 1,887,429 1,847,411 767,504
Massachusetts Fund ...... 504,424 492,589 190,575
Michigan Fund ........... 1,460,527 1,420,284 584,545
Minnesota Fund .......... 723,693 693,528 286,923
Ohio Fund ............... 1,058,198 1,013,556 410,345
1. For the period from October 1, 1996 through February 28, 1997.
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AND TRANSFER AGENT Franklin/Templeton Investor
Services, Inc. (Investor Services) is the fund's shareholder servicing agent
and acts as the fund's transfer agent and dividend-paying agent. Investor
Services is located at 777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404. Please
send all correspondence to Investor Services to P.O. Box 997151, Sacramento,
CA 95899-9983.
For its services, Investor Services receives a fixed fee per account. The
fund also will reimburse Investor Services for certain out-of-pocket
expenses, which may include payments by Investor Services to entities,
including affiliated entities, that provide sub-shareholder services,
recordkeeping and/or transfer agency services to beneficial owners of the
fund. The amount of reimbursements for these services per benefit plan
participant fund account per year will not exceed the per account fee payable
by the fund to Investor Services in connection with maintaining shareholder
accounts.
CUSTODIAN Bank of New York, Mutual Funds Division, 90 Washington Street, New
York, NY 10286, acts as custodian of the fund's securities and other assets.
AUDITOR PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 333 Market Street, San Francisco, CA
94105, is each fund's independent auditor. The auditor gives an opinion on
the financial statements included in the trust's Annual Report to
Shareholders and reviews the trust's registration statement filed with the
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
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Since most purchases by the fund are principal transactions at net prices,
the fund incurs little or no brokerage costs. The fund deals directly with
the selling or buying principal or market maker without incurring charges for
the services of a broker on its behalf, unless it is determined that a better
price or execution may be obtained by using the services of a broker.
Purchases of portfolio securities from underwriters will include a commission
or concession paid by the issuer to the underwriter, and purchases from
dealers will include a spread between the bid and ask prices. As a general
rule, the fund does not buy securities in underwritings where it is given no
choice, or only limited choice, in the designation of dealers to receive the
commission. The fund seeks to obtain prompt execution of orders at the most
favorable net price. Transactions may be directed to dealers in return for
research and statistical information, as well as for special services
provided by the dealers in the execution of orders.
It is not possible to place a dollar value on the special executions or on
the research services the manager receives from dealers effecting
transactions in portfolio securities. The allocation of transactions in order
to obtain additional research services allows the manager to supplement its
own research and analysis activities and to receive the views and information
of individuals and research staffs of other securities firms. As long as it
is lawful and appropriate to do so, the manager and its affiliates may use
this research and data in their investment advisory capacities with other
clients. If the fund's officers are satisfied that the best execution is
obtained, the sale of fund shares, as well as shares of other funds in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds, also may be considered a factor in the
selection of broker-dealers to execute the fund's portfolio transactions.
If purchases or sales of securities of the fund and one or more other
investment companies or clients supervised by the manager are considered at
or about the same time, transactions in these securities will be allocated
among the several investment companies and clients in a manner deemed
equitable to all by the manager, taking into account the respective sizes of
the funds and the amount of securities to be purchased or sold. In some cases
this procedure could have a detrimental effect on the price or volume of the
security so far as the fund is concerned. In other cases it is possible that
the ability to participate in volume transactions may improve execution and
reduce transaction costs to the fund.
During the last three fiscal years ended February 28, 1999, 1998 and 1997,
the funds did not pay any brokerage commissions.
As of February 28, 1999, the funds did not own securities of their regular
broker-dealers.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
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The funds calculate dividends and capital gains the same way for each class.
The amount of any income dividends per share will differ, however, generally
due to the difference in the distribution and service (Rule 12b-1) fees of
each class. The funds do not pay "interest" or guarantee any fixed rate of
return on an investment in their shares.
DISTRIBUTIONS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME The funds receive income generally in
the form of interest on their investments. This income, less expenses
incurred in the operation of the funds, constitutes the funds' net investment
income from which dividends may be paid to you.
By meeting certain requirements of the Internal Revenue Code, the funds have
qualified and continue to qualify to pay exempt-interest dividends to you.
These dividends are derived from interest income exempt from regular federal
income tax, and are not subject to regular federal income tax when they are
distributed to you. In addition, to the extent that exempt-interest
dividends are derived from interest on obligations of a state or its
political subdivisions, or from interest on qualifying U.S. territorial
obligations (including qualifying obligations of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin
Islands or Guam), they also will be exempt from that state's personal income
taxes. Most states generally do not grant tax-free treatment to interest on
state and municipal securities of other states.
The funds may earn taxable income on any temporary investments, on the
discount from stripped obligations or their coupons, on income from
securities loans or other taxable transactions, or on ordinary income derived
from the sale of market discount bonds. Any fund distributions from such
income will be taxable to you as ordinary income, whether you receive them in
cash or in additional shares.
DISTRIBUTIONS OF CAPITAL GAINS The funds may derive capital gains and losses
in connection with sales or other dispositions of their portfolio
securities. Distributions from net short-term capital gains will be taxable
to you as ordinary income. Distributions from net long-term capital gains
will be taxable to you as long-term capital gain, regardless of how long you
have held your shares in a fund. Any net capital gains realized by a fund
generally will be distributed once each year, and may be distributed more
frequently, if necessary, in order to reduce or eliminate excise or income
taxes on the fund.
INFORMATION ON THE TAX CHARACTER OF DISTRIBUTIONS The funds will inform you
of the amount of your ordinary income dividends and capital gains
distributions at the time they are paid, and will advise you of their tax
status for federal income tax purposes shortly after the close of each
calendar year, including the portion of the distributions that on average
comprise taxable income or interest income that is a tax preference item
under the alternative minimum tax. If you have not held fund shares for a
full year, a fund may designate and distribute to you, as taxable, tax-exempt
or tax preference income, a percentage of income that is not equal to the
actual amount of such income earned during the period of your investment in
the fund.
ELECTION TO BE TAXED AS A REGULATED INVESTMENT COMPANY Each fund has elected
to be treated as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the
Internal Revenue Code, has qualified as such for its most recent fiscal year,
and intends to so qualify during the current fiscal year. As regulated
investment companies, the funds generally pay no federal income tax on the
income and gains they distribute to you. The board reserves the right not to
maintain the qualification of a fund as a regulated investment company if it
determines such course of action to be beneficial to shareholders. In such
case, a fund will be subject to federal, and possibly state, corporate taxes
on its taxable income and gains, and distributions to you will be taxed as
ordinary dividend income to the extent of such fund's earnings and profits.
EXCISE TAX DISTRIBUTION REQUIREMENTS To avoid federal excise taxes, the
Internal Revenue Code requires each fund to distribute to you by December 31
of each year, at a minimum, the following amounts: 98% of its taxable
ordinary income earned during the calendar year; 98% of its capital gain net
income earned during the twelve month period ending October 31; and 100% of
any undistributed amounts from the prior year. Each fund intends to declare
and pay these amounts in December (or in January that are treated by you as
received in December) to avoid these excise taxes, but can give no assurances
that its distributions will be sufficient to eliminate all taxes.
REDEMPTION OF FUND SHARES Redemptions and exchanges of fund shares are
taxable transactions for federal and state income tax purposes. If you
redeem your fund shares, or exchange your fund shares for shares of a
different Franklin Templeton Fund, the IRS will require that you report a
gain or loss on your redemption or exchange. If you hold your shares as a
capital asset, the gain or loss that you realize will be capital gain or loss
and will be long-term or short-term, generally depending on how long you hold
your shares. Any loss incurred on the redemption or exchange of shares held
for six months or less will be disallowed to the extent of any
exempt-interest dividends distributed to you with respect to your fund shares
and any remaining loss will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the
extent of any long-term capital gains distributed to you by the fund on those
shares.
All or a portion of any loss that you realize upon the redemption of your
fund shares will be disallowed to the extent that you buy other shares in the
fund (through reinvestment of dividends or otherwise) within 30 days before
or after your share redemption. Any loss disallowed under these rules will
be added to your tax basis in the new shares you buy.
DEFERRAL OF BASIS If you redeem some or all of your shares in a fund, and
then reinvest the sales proceeds in such fund or in another Franklin
Templeton Fund within 90 days of buying the original shares, the sales charge
that would otherwise apply to your reinvestment may be reduced or eliminated.
The IRS will require you to report gain or loss on the redemption of your
original shares in a fund. In doing so, all or a portion of the sales charge
that you paid for your original shares in a fund will be excluded from your
tax basis in the shares sold (for the purpose of determining gain or loss
upon the sale of such shares). The portion of the sales charge excluded will
equal the amount that the sales charge is reduced on your reinvestment. Any
portion of the sales charge excluded from your tax basis in the shares sold
will be added to the tax basis of the shares you acquire from your
reinvestment.
DIVIDENDS-RECEIVED DEDUCTION FOR CORPORATIONS Because each fund's income
consists of interest rather than dividends, no portion of its distributions
generally will be eligible for the corporate dividends-received deduction.
None of the dividends paid by the funds for the most recent fiscal year
qualified for such deduction, and it is anticipated that none of the current
year's dividends will so qualify.
INVESTMENT IN COMPLEX SECURITIES Each fund may invest in complex
securities. These investments may be subject to numerous special and complex
tax rules. These rules could affect whether gains and losses recognized by a
fund are treated as ordinary income or capital gain, accelerate the
recognition of income to a fund and/or defer a fund's ability to recognize
losses. In turn, these rules may affect the amount, timing or character of
the income distributed to you by a fund.
TREATMENT OF PRIVATE ACTIVITY BOND INTEREST Interest on certain private
activity bonds, while still exempt from regular federal income tax, is a
preference item for taxpayers when determining their alternative minimum tax
under the Internal Revenue Code and under the income tax provisions of
several states. Private activity bond interest could subject you to or
increase your liability under federal and state alternative minimum taxes,
depending on your individual or corporate tax position. Persons who are
defined in the Internal Revenue Code as substantial users (or persons related
to such users) of facilities financed by private activity bonds should
consult with their tax advisors before buying fund shares.
ORGANIZATION, VOTING RIGHTS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS
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The funds are series of Franklin Tax-Free Trust, an open-end management
investment company, commonly called a mutual fund. The trust was organized as
a Massachusetts business trust in September 1984, and is registered with the
SEC.
As a shareholder of a Massachusetts business trust, you could, under certain
circumstances, be held personally liable as a partner for its obligations.
The Agreement and Declaration of Trust, however, contains an express
disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the fund. The
Declaration of Trust also provides for indemnification and reimbursement of
expenses out of the fund's assets if you are held personally liable for
obligations of the fund. The Declaration of Trust provides that the fund
shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against you for any
act or obligation of the fund and satisfy any judgment thereon. All such
rights are limited to the assets of the fund. The Declaration of Trust
further provides that the fund may maintain appropriate insurance (for
example, fidelity bonding and errors and omissions insurance) for the
protection of the fund, its shareholders, trustees, officers, employees and
agents to cover possible tort and other liabilities. Furthermore, the
activities of the fund as an investment company, as distinguished from an
operating company, would not likely give rise to liabilities in excess of the
fund's total assets. Thus, the risk that you would incur financial loss on
account of shareholder liability is limited to the unlikely circumstance in
which both inadequate insurance exists and the fund itself is unable to meet
its obligations.
Each fund, except for the Arizona and Florida Funds, currently offers two
classes of shares, Class A and Class C. Before January 1, 1999, Class A
shares were designated Class I and Class C shares were designated Class II.
The funds may offer additional classes of shares in the future. The full
title of each class is:
o Franklin Arizona Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Florida Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Massachusetts Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Massachusetts Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Michigan Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Michigan Tax-Free Insured Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Minnesota Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Minnesota Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Ohio Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Ohio Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
Shares of each class represent proportionate interests in the fund's assets.
On matters that affect the fund as a whole, each class has the same voting
and other rights and preferences as any other class. On matters that affect
only one class, only shareholders of that class may vote. Each class votes
separately on matters affecting only that class, or expressly required to be
voted on separately by state or federal law. Shares of each class of a series
have the same voting and other rights and preferences as the other classes
and series of the trust for matters that affect the trust as a whole.
Additional series may be offered in the future.
The trust has noncumulative voting rights. For board member elections, this
gives holders of more than 50% of the shares voting the ability to elect all
of the members of the board. If this happens, holders of the remaining shares
voting will not be able to elect anyone to the board.
The trust does not intend to hold annual shareholder meetings. The trust or a
series of the trust may hold special meetings, however, for matters requiring
shareholder approval. A meeting may be called by the board to consider the
removal of a board member if requested in writing by shareholders holding at
least 10% of the outstanding shares. In certain circumstances, we are
required to help you communicate with other shareholders about the removal of
a board member. A special meeting also may be called by the board in its
discretion.
From time to time, the number of fund shares held in the "street name"
accounts of various securities dealers for the benefit of their clients or in
centralized securities depositories may exceed 5% of the total shares
outstanding. To the best knowledge of the fund, no other person holds
beneficially or of record more than 5% of the outstanding shares of any class.
As of April 12, 1999, the officers and board members, as a group, owned of
record and beneficially less than 1% of the outstanding shares of each fund
and class. The board members may own shares in other funds in the Franklin
Templeton Group of Funds.
BUYING AND SELLING SHARES
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The fund continuously offers its shares through securities dealers who have
an agreement with Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. (Distributors). A
securities dealer includes any financial institution that, either directly or
through affiliates, has an agreement with Distributors to handle customer
orders and accounts with the fund. This reference is for convenience only and
does not indicate a legal conclusion of capacity. Banks and financial
institutions that sell shares of the fund may be required by state law to
register as securities dealers.
For investors outside the U.S., the offering of fund shares may be limited in
many jurisdictions. An investor who wishes to buy shares of the fund should
determine, or have a broker-dealer determine, the applicable laws and
regulations of the relevant jurisdiction. Investors are responsible for
compliance with tax, currency exchange or other regulations applicable to
redemption and purchase transactions in any jurisdiction to which they may be
subject. Investors should consult appropriate tax and legal advisors to
obtain information on the rules applicable to these transactions.
All checks, drafts, wires and other payment mediums used to buy or sell
shares of the fund must be denominated in U.S. dollars. We may, in our sole
discretion, either (a) reject any order to buy or sell shares denominated in
any other currency or (b) honor the transaction or make adjustments to your
account for the transaction as of a date and with a foreign currency exchange
factor determined by the drawee bank.
When you buy shares, if you submit a check or a draft that is returned unpaid
to the fund we may impose a $10 charge against your account for each returned
item.
If you buy shares through the reinvestment of dividends, the shares will be
purchased at the net asset value determined on the business day following the
dividend record date (sometimes known as the "ex-dividend date"). The
processing date for the reinvestment of dividends may vary and does not
affect the amount or value of the shares acquired.
INITIAL SALES CHARGES The maximum initial sales charge is 4.25% for Class A
and 1% for Class C.
The initial sales charge for Class A shares may be reduced for certain large
purchases, as described in the prospectus. We offer several ways for you to
combine your purchases in the Franklin Templeton Funds to take advantage of
the lower sales charges for large purchases. The Franklin Templeton Funds
include the U.S. registered mutual funds in the Franklin Group of Funds(R) and
the Templeton Group of Funds except Franklin Valuemark Funds, Templeton
Capital Accumulator Fund, Inc., and Templeton Variable Products Series Fund.
CUMULATIVE QUANTITY DISCOUNT. For purposes of calculating the sales charge on
Class A shares, you may combine the amount of your current purchase with the
cost or current value, whichever is higher, of your existing shares in the
Franklin Templeton Funds. You also may combine the shares of your spouse,
children under the age of 21 or grandchildren under the age of 21. If you are
the sole owner of a company, you also may add any company accounts, including
retirement plan accounts.
LETTER OF INTENT (LOI). You may buy Class A shares at a reduced sales charge
by completing the letter of intent section of your account application. A
letter of intent is a commitment by you to invest a specified dollar amount
during a 13 month period. The amount you agree to invest determines the sales
charge you pay. By completing the letter of intent section of the
application, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
o You authorize Distributors to reserve 5% of your total intended purchase
in Class A shares registered in your name until you fulfill your LOI. Your
periodic statements will include the reserved shares in the total shares
you own, and we will pay or reinvest dividend and capital gain
distributions on the reserved shares according to the distribution option
you have chosen.
o You give Distributors a security interest in the reserved shares and
appoint Distributors as attorney-in-fact.
o Distributors may sell any or all of the reserved shares to cover any
additional sales charge if you do not fulfill the terms of the LOI.
o Although you may exchange your shares, you may not sell reserved shares
until you complete the LOI or pay the higher sales charge.
After you file your LOI with the fund, you may buy Class A shares at the
sales charge applicable to the amount specified in your LOI. Sales charge
reductions based on purchases in more than one Franklin Templeton Fund will
be effective only after notification to Distributors that the investment
qualifies for a discount. Any Class A purchases you made within 90 days
before you filed your LOI also may qualify for a retroactive reduction in the
sales charge. If you file your LOI with the fund before a change in the
fund's sales charge, you may complete the LOI at the lower of the new sales
charge or the sales charge in effect when the LOI was filed.
Your holdings in the Franklin Templeton Funds acquired more than 90 days
before you filed your LOI will be counted towards the completion of the LOI,
but they will not be entitled to a retroactive reduction in the sales charge.
Any redemptions you make during the 13 month period will be subtracted from
the amount of the purchases for purposes of determining whether the terms of
the LOI have been completed.
If the terms of your LOI are met, the reserved shares will be deposited to an
account in your name or delivered to you or as you direct. If the amount of
your total purchases, less redemptions, is more than the amount specified in
your LOI and is an amount that would qualify for a further sales charge
reduction, a retroactive price adjustment will be made by Distributors and
the securities dealer through whom purchases were made. The price adjustment
will be made on purchases made within 90 days before and on those made after
you filed your LOI and will be applied towards the purchase of additional
shares at the offering price applicable to a single purchase or the dollar
amount of the total purchases.
If the amount of your total purchases, less redemptions, is less than the
amount specified in your LOI, the sales charge will be adjusted upward,
depending on the actual amount purchased (less redemptions) during the
period. You will need to send Distributors an amount equal to the difference
in the actual dollar amount of sales charge paid and the amount of sales
charge that would have applied to the total purchases if the total of the
purchases had been made at one time. Upon payment of this amount, the
reserved shares held for your account will be deposited to an account in your
name or delivered to you or as you direct. If within 20 days after written
request the difference in sales charge is not paid, we will redeem an
appropriate number of reserved shares to realize the difference. If you
redeem the total amount in your account before you fulfill your LOI, we will
deduct the additional sales charge due from the sale proceeds and forward the
balance to you.
GROUP PURCHASES. If you are a member of a qualified group, you may buy Class
A shares at a reduced sales charge that applies to the group as a whole. The
sales charge is based on the combined dollar value of the group members'
existing investments, plus the amount of the current purchase.
A qualified group is one that:
o Was formed at least six months ago,
o Has a purpose other than buying fund shares at a discount,
o Has more than 10 members,
o Can arrange for meetings between our representatives and group members,
o Agrees to include Franklin Templeton Fund sales and other materials in
publications and mailings to its members at reduced or no cost to
Distributors,
o Agrees to arrange for payroll deduction or other bulk transmission of
investments to the fund, and
o Meets other uniform criteria that allow Distributors to achieve cost
savings in distributing shares.
WAIVERS FOR INVESTMENTS FROM CERTAIN PAYMENTS. Class A shares may be
purchased without an initial sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge
(CDSC) by investors who reinvest within 365 days:
o Dividend and capital gain distributions from any Franklin Templeton
Fund. The distributions generally must be reinvested in the same share
class. Certain exceptions apply, however, to Class C shareholders who chose
to reinvest their distributions in Class A shares of the fund before
November 17, 1997, and to Advisor Class or Class Z shareholders of a
Franklin Templeton Fund who may reinvest their distributions in the fund's
Class A shares. This waiver category also applies to Class [B and] C shares.
o Dividend or capital gain distributions from a real estate investment
trust (REIT) sponsored or advised by Franklin Properties, Inc.
o Annuity payments received under either an annuity option or from death
benefit proceeds, if the annuity contract offers as an investment option
the Franklin Valuemark Funds or the Templeton Variable Products Series
Fund. You should contact your tax advisor for information on any tax
consequences that may apply.
o Redemption proceeds from a repurchase of shares of Franklin Floating
Rate Trust, if the shares were continuously held for at least 12 months.
If you immediately placed your redemption proceeds in a Franklin Bank CD or
a Franklin Templeton money fund, you may reinvest them as described above.
The proceeds must be reinvested within 365 days from the date the CD
matures, including any rollover, or the date you redeem your money fund
shares.
o Redemption proceeds from the sale of Class A shares of any of the
Templeton Global Strategy Funds if you are a qualified investor.
If you paid a CDSC when you redeemed your Class A shares from a Templeton
Global Strategy Fund, a new CDSC will apply to your purchase of fund shares
and the CDSC holding period will begin again. We will, however, credit your
fund account with additional shares based on the CDSC you previously paid
and the amount of the redemption proceeds that you reinvest.
If you immediately placed your redemption proceeds in a Franklin Templeton
money fund, you may reinvest them as described above. The proceeds must be
reinvested within 365 days from the date they are redeemed from the money
fund.
WAIVERS FOR CERTAIN INVESTORS. Class A shares also may be purchased without
an initial sales charge or CDSC by various individuals and institutions due
to anticipated economies in sales efforts and expenses, including:
o Trust companies and bank trust departments agreeing to invest in
Franklin Templeton Funds over a 13 month period at least $1 million of
assets held in a fiduciary, agency, advisory, custodial or similar capacity
and over which the trust companies and bank trust departments or other plan
fiduciaries or participants, in the case of certain retirement plans, have
full or shared investment discretion. We will accept orders for these
accounts by mail accompanied by a check or by telephone or other means of
electronic data transfer directly from the bank or trust company, with
payment by federal funds received by the close of business on the next
business day following the order.
o Any state or local government or any instrumentality, department,
authority or agency thereof that has determined the fund is a legally
permissible investment and that can only buy fund shares without paying
sales charges. Please consult your legal and investment advisors to
determine if an investment in the fund is permissible and suitable for you
and the effect, if any, of payments by the fund on arbitrage rebate
calculations.
o Broker-dealers, registered investment advisors or certified financial
planners who have entered into an agreement with Distributors for clients
participating in comprehensive fee programs
o Qualified registered investment advisors who buy through a broker-dealer
or service agent who has entered into an agreement with Distributors
o Registered securities dealers and their affiliates, for their investment
accounts only
o Current employees of securities dealers and their affiliates and their
family members, as allowed by the internal policies of their employer
o Officers, trustees, directors and full-time employees of the Franklin
Templeton Funds or the Franklin Templeton Group, and their family members,
consistent with our then-current policies
o Any investor who is currently a Class Z shareholder of Franklin Mutual
Series Fund Inc. (Mutual Series), or who is a former Mutual Series Class Z
shareholder who had an account in any Mutual Series fund on October 31,
1996, or who sold his or her shares of Mutual Series Class Z within the
past 365 days
o Investment companies exchanging shares or selling assets pursuant to a
merger, acquisition or exchange offer
o Accounts managed by the Franklin Templeton Group
o Certain unit investment trusts and their holders reinvesting
distributions from the trusts
SALES IN TAIWAN. Under agreements with certain banks in Taiwan, Republic of
China, the fund's shares are available to these banks' trust accounts without
a sales charge. The banks may charge service fees to their customers who
participate in the trusts. A portion of these service fees may be paid to
Distributors or one of its affiliates to help defray expenses of maintaining
a service office in Taiwan, including expenses related to local literature
fulfillment and communication facilities.
The fund's Class A shares may be offered to investors in Taiwan through
securities advisory firms known locally as Securities Investment Consulting
Enterprises. In conformity with local business practices in Taiwan, Class A
shares may be offered with the following schedule of sales charges:
SIZE OF PURCHASE - U.S. DOLLARS SALES CHARGE (%)
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Under $30,000 3.0
$30,000 but less than $100,000 2.0
$100,000 but less than $400,000 1.0
$400,000 or more 0
DEALER COMPENSATION Securities dealers may at times receive the entire sales
charge. A securities dealer who receives 90% or more of the sales charge may
be deemed an underwriter under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
Financial institutions or their affiliated brokers may receive an agency
transaction fee in the percentages indicated in the dealer compensation table
in the fund's prospectus.
Distributors may pay the following commissions, out of its own resources, to
securities dealers who initiate and are responsible for purchases of Class A
shares of $1 million or more: 0.75% on sales of $1 million to $2 million,
plus 0.60% on sales over $2 million to $3 million, plus 0.50% on sales over
$3 million to $50 million, plus 0.25% on sales over $50 million to $100
million, plus 0.15% on sales over $100 million.
These breakpoints are reset every 12 months for purposes of additional
purchases.
Distributors and/or its affiliates provide financial support to various
securities dealers that sell shares of the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
This support is based primarily on the amount of sales of fund shares. The
amount of support may be affected by: total sales; net sales; levels of
redemptions; the proportion of a securities dealer's sales and marketing
efforts in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; a securities dealer's
support of, and participation in, Distributors' marketing programs; a
securities dealer's compensation programs for its registered representatives;
and the extent of a securities dealer's marketing programs relating to the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Financial support to securities dealers
may be made by payments from Distributors' resources, from Distributors'
retention of underwriting concessions and, in the case of funds that have
Rule 12b-1 plans, from payments to Distributors under such plans. In
addition, certain securities dealers may receive brokerage commissions
generated by fund portfolio transactions in accordance with the rules of the
National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
Distributors routinely sponsors due diligence meetings for registered
representatives during which they receive updates on various Franklin
Templeton Funds and are afforded the opportunity to speak with portfolio
managers. Invitation to these meetings is not conditioned on selling a
specific number of shares. Those who have shown an interest in the Franklin
Templeton Funds, however, are more likely to be considered. To the extent
permitted by their firm's policies and procedures, registered
representatives' expenses in attending these meetings may be covered by
Distributors.
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE (CDSC) If you invest $1 million or more in
Class A shares, either as a lump sum or through our cumulative quantity
discount or letter of intent programs, a CDSC may apply on any shares you
sell within 12 months of purchase. For Class C shares, a CDSC may apply if
you sell your shares within 18 months of purchase. The CDSC is 1% of the
value of the shares sold or the net asset value at the time of purchase,
whichever is less.
CDSC WAIVERS. The CDSC for any share class generally will be waived for:
o Account fees
o Redemptions of Class A shares by investors who purchased $1 million or
more without an initial sales charge if the securities dealer of record
waived its commission in connection with the purchase
o Redemptions by the fund when an account falls below the minimum required
account size
o Redemptions following the death of the shareholder or beneficial owner
o Redemptions through a systematic withdrawal plan set up before February
1, 1995
o Redemptions through a systematic withdrawal plan set up on or after
February 1, 1995, up to 1% monthly, 3% quarterly, 6% semiannually or 12%
annually of your account's net asset value depending on the frequency of
your plan
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE If you request the exchange of the total value of your
account, accrued but unpaid income dividends and capital gain distributions
will be reinvested in the fund at net asset value on the date of the
exchange, and then the entire share balance will be exchanged into the new
fund. Backup withholding and information reporting may apply.
If a substantial number of shareholders should, within a short period, sell
their fund shares under the exchange privilege, the fund might have to sell
portfolio securities it might otherwise hold and incur the additional costs
related to such transactions. On the other hand, increased use of the
exchange privilege may result in periodic large inflows of money. If this
occurs, it is the fund's general policy to initially invest this money in
short-term, tax-exempt municipal securities, unless it is believed that
attractive investment opportunities consistent with the fund's investment
goals exist immediately. This money will then be withdrawn from the
short-term, tax-exempt municipal securities and invested in portfolio
securities in as orderly a manner as is possible when attractive investment
opportunities arise.
The proceeds from the sale of shares of an investment company are generally
not available until the seventh day following the sale. The funds you are
seeking to exchange into may delay issuing shares pursuant to an exchange
until that seventh day. The sale of fund shares to complete an exchange will
be effected at net asset value at the close of business on the day the
request for exchange is received in proper form.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN Our systematic withdrawal plan allows you to sell
your shares and receive regular payments from your account on a monthly,
quarterly, semiannual or annual basis. The value of your account must be at
least $5,000 and the minimum payment amount for each withdrawal must be at
least $50. There are no service charges for establishing or maintaining a
systematic withdrawal plan. Once your plan is established, any distributions
paid by the fund will be automatically reinvested in your account.
Payments under the plan will be made from the redemption of an equivalent
amount of shares in your account, generally on the 25th day of the month in
which a payment is scheduled. If the 25th falls on a weekend or holiday, we
will process the redemption on the next business day. When you sell your
shares under a systematic withdrawal plan, it is a taxable transaction.
To avoid paying sales charges on money you plan to withdraw within a short
period of time, you may not want to set up a systematic withdrawal plan if
you plan to buy shares on a regular basis. Shares sold under the plan also
may be subject to a CDSC.
Redeeming shares through a systematic withdrawal plan may reduce or exhaust
the shares in your account if payments exceed distributions received from the
fund. This is especially likely to occur if there is a market decline. If a
withdrawal amount exceeds the value of your account, your account will be
closed and the remaining balance in your account will be sent to you. Because
the amount withdrawn under the plan may be more than your actual yield or
income, part of the payment may be a return of your investment.
You may discontinue a systematic withdrawal plan, change the amount and
schedule of withdrawal payments, or suspend one payment by notifying us by
mail or by phone at least seven business days before the end of the month
preceding a scheduled payment. The fund may discontinue a systematic
withdrawal plan by notifying you in writing and will automatically
discontinue a systematic withdrawal plan if all shares in your account are
withdrawn or if the fund receives notification of the shareholder's death or
incapacity.
REDEMPTIONS IN KIND The fund has committed itself to pay in cash (by check)
all requests for redemption by any shareholder of record, limited in amount,
however, during any 90-day period to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the
value of the fund's net assets at the beginning of the 90-day period. This
commitment is irrevocable without the prior approval of the U.S. Securities
and Exchange Commission (SEC). In the case of redemption requests in excess
of these amounts, the board reserves the right to make payments in whole or
in part in securities or other assets of the fund, in case of an emergency,
or if the payment of such a redemption in cash would be detrimental to the
existing shareholders of the fund. In these circumstances, the securities
distributed would be valued at the price used to compute the fund's net
assets and you may incur brokerage fees in converting the securities to cash.
The fund does not intend to redeem illiquid securities in kind. If this
happens, however, you may not be able to recover your investment in a timely
manner.
SHARE CERTIFICATES We will credit your shares to your fund account. We do
not issue share certificates unless you specifically request them. This
eliminates the costly problem of replacing lost, stolen or destroyed
certificates. If a certificate is lost, stolen or destroyed, you may have to
pay an insurance premium of up to 2% of the value of the certificate to
replace it.
Any outstanding share certificates must be returned to the fund if you want
to sell or exchange those shares or if you would like to start a systematic
withdrawal plan. The certificates should be properly endorsed. You can do
this either by signing the back of the certificate or by completing a share
assignment form. For your protection, you may prefer to complete a share
assignment form and to send the certificate and assignment form in separate
envelopes.
GENERAL INFORMATION If dividend checks are returned to the fund marked
"unable to forward" by the postal service, we will consider this a request by
you to change your dividend option to reinvest all distributions. The
proceeds will be reinvested in additional shares at net asset value until we
receive new instructions.
Distribution or redemption checks sent to you do not earn interest or any
other income during the time the checks remain uncashed. Neither the fund nor
its affiliates will be liable for any loss caused by your failure to cash
such checks. The fund is not responsible for tracking down uncashed checks,
unless a check is returned as undeliverable.
In most cases, if mail is returned as undeliverable we are required to take
certain steps to try to find you free of charge. If these attempts are
unsuccessful, however, we may deduct the costs of any additional efforts to
find you from your account. These costs may include a percentage of the
account when a search company charges a percentage fee in exchange for its
location services.
The wiring of redemption proceeds is a special service that we make available
whenever possible. By offering this service to you, the fund is not bound to
meet any redemption request in less than the seven day period prescribed by
law. Neither the fund nor its agents shall be liable to you or any other
person if, for any reason, a redemption request by wire is not processed as
described in the prospectus.
Franklin Templeton Investor Services, Inc. (Investor Services) may pay
certain financial institutions that maintain omnibus accounts with the fund
on behalf of numerous beneficial owners for recordkeeping operations
performed with respect to such owners. For each beneficial owner in the
omnibus account, the fund may reimburse Investor Services an amount not to
exceed the per account fee that the fund normally pays Investor Services.
These financial institutions also may charge a fee for their services
directly to their clients.
If you buy or sell shares through your securities dealer, we use the net
asset value next calculated after your securities dealer receives your
request, which is promptly transmitted to the fund. If you sell shares
through your securities dealer, it is your dealer's responsibility to
transmit the order to the fund in a timely fashion. Your redemption proceeds
will not earn interest between the time we receive the order from your dealer
and the time we receive any required documents. Any loss to you resulting
from your dealer's failure to transmit your redemption order to the fund in a
timely fashion must be settled between you and your securities dealer.
Certain shareholder servicing agents may be authorized to accept your
transaction request.
For institutional accounts, there may be additional methods of buying or
selling fund shares than those described in this SAI or in the prospectus.
In the event of disputes involving multiple claims of ownership or authority
to control your account, the fund has the right (but has no obligation) to:
(a) freeze the account and require the written agreement of all persons
deemed by the fund to have a potential property interest in the account,
before executing instructions regarding the account; (b) interplead disputed
funds or accounts with a court of competent jurisdiction; or (c) surrender
ownership of all or a portion of the account to the IRS in response to a
notice of levy.
PRICING SHARES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When you buy shares, you pay the offering price. The offering price is the
net asset value (NAV) per share plus any applicable sales charge, calculated
to two decimal places using standard rounding criteria. When you sell shares,
you receive the NAV minus any applicable CDSC.
The value of a mutual fund is determined by deducting the fund's liabilities
from the total assets of the portfolio. The net asset value per share is
determined by dividing the net asset value of the fund by the number of
shares outstanding.
The fund calculates the NAV per share of each class each business day at the
close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally 1:00 p.m. pacific
time). The fund does not calculate the NAV on days the New York Stock
Exchange (NYSE) is closed for trading, which include New Year's Day, Martin
Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence
Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
When determining its NAV, the fund values cash and receivables at their
realizable amounts, and records interest as accrued . The fund values
over-the-counter portfolio securities within the range of the most recent
quoted bid and ask prices. If portfolio securities trade both in the
over-the-counter market and on a stock exchange, the fund values them
according to the broadest and most representative market as determined by the
manager. Municipal securities generally trade in the over-the-counter market
rather than on a securities exchange. In the absence of a sale or reported
bid and ask prices, information with respect to bond and note transactions,
quotations from bond dealers, market transactions in comparable securities,
and various relationships between securities are used to determine the value
of municipal securities.
Other securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued
at the current market price, which may be obtained from a pricing service,
based on a variety of factors including recent trades, institutional size
trading in similar types of securities (considering yield, risk and maturity)
and/or developments related to specific issues. Securities and other assets
for which market prices are not readily available are valued at fair value as
determined following procedures approved by the board. With the approval of
the board, the fund may use a pricing service, bank or securities dealer to
perform any of the above described functions.
THE UNDERWRITER
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. (Distributors) acts as the principal
underwriter in the continuous public offering of the fund's shares.
Distributors is located at 777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404.
Distributors pays the expenses of the distribution of fund shares, including
advertising expenses and the costs of printing sales material and
prospectuses used to offer shares to the public. The fund pays the expenses
of preparing and printing amendments to its registration statements and
prospectuses (other than those necessitated by the activities of
Distributors) and of sending prospectuses to existing shareholders.
The table below shows the aggregate underwriting commissions Distributors
received in connection with the offering of the fund's shares, the net
underwriting discounts and commissions Distributors retained after allowances
to dealers, and the amounts Distributors received in connection with
redemptions or repurchases of shares for the last three fiscal years ended
February 28:
AMOUNT
RECEIVED IN
CONNECTION
TOTAL AMOUNT WITH
COMMISSIONS RETAINED BY REDEMPTIONS AND
RECEIVED ($) DISTRIBUTORS ($) REPURCHASES ($)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999
Arizona Fund ............ 477,674 32,175 0
Florida Fund ............ 610,778 42,251 85
Insured Fund ............3,799,368 242,769 38,597
Massachusetts Fund ......1,115,229 66,155 24,083
Michigan Fund ...........2,630,865 163,572 10,821
Minnesota Fund ..........1,378,166 80,608 6,400
Ohio Fund ...............2,308,355 146,830 15,696
1998
Arizona Fund............. 444,372 30,899 0
Florida Fund............. 643,277 42,185 0
Insured Fund.............3,458,998 223,393 9,982
Massachusetts Fund....... 971,661 60,293 4,495
Michigan Fund............2,762,586 167,731 18,468
Minnesota Fund...........1,114,812 67,354 1,216
Ohio Fund................2,325,085 145,477 6,228
1997
Arizona Fund............. 325,449 20,962 0
Florida Fund ............ 471,751 30,514 0
Insured Fund ............3,651,499 232,191 6,263
Massachusetts Fund ...... 996,784 64,688 1,328
Michigan Fund ...........3,025,658 186,288 7,786
Minnesota Fund ..........1,061,069 65,580 2,804
Ohio Fund ...............2,389,162 144,651 9,688
Distributors may be entitled to reimbursement under the Rule 12b-1 plans, as
discussed below. Except as noted, Distributors received no other compensation
from the fund for acting as underwriter.
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES Each class has a separate distribution
or "Rule 12b-1" plan. Under each plan, the fund shall pay or may reimburse
Distributors or others for the expenses of activities that are primarily
intended to sell shares of the class. These expenses may include, among
others, distribution or service fees paid to securities dealers or others who
have executed a servicing agreement with the fund, Distributors or its
affiliates; a prorated portion of Distributors' overhead expenses; and the
expenses of printing prospectuses and reports used for sales purposes, and
preparing and distributing sales literature and advertisements.
The distribution and service (12b-1) fees charged to each class are based
only on the fees attributable to that particular class.
THE CLASS A PLAN. Payments by the fund under the Class A plan may not exceed
0.15% for the Florida and Arizona Funds and 0.10% for the remaining funds per
year of Class A's average daily net assets, payable quarterly. All
distribution expenses over this amount will be borne by those who have
incurred them.
In implementing the Class A plan, the board has determined that the annual
fees payable under the plan will be equal to the sum of: (i) the amount
obtained by multiplying 0.10% by the average daily net assets represented by
the fund's Class A shares that were acquired by investors on or after May 1,
1994, the effective date of the plan (new assets), and (ii) the amount
obtained by multiplying 0.05% by the average daily net assets represented by
the fund's Class A shares that were acquired before May 1, 1994 (old assets).
These fees will be paid to the current securities dealer of record on the
account. In addition, until such time as the maximum payment of 0.10% is
reached on a yearly basis, up to an additional 0.02% will be paid to
Distributors under the plan. When the fund reaches $4 billion is assets, the
amount to be paid to Distributors will be reduced from 0.02% to 0.01%. The
payments made to Distributors will be used by Distributors to defray other
marketing expenses that have been incurred in accordance with the plan, such
as advertising.
The fee is a Class A expense. This means that all Class A shareholders,
regardless of when they purchased their shares, will bear Rule 12b-1 expenses
at the same rate. The initial rate will be at least 0.07% (0.05% plus 0.02%)
of the average daily net assets of Class A and, as Class A shares are sold on
or after May 1, 1994, will increase over time. Thus, as the proportion of
Class A shares purchased on or after May 1, 1994, increases in relation to
outstanding Class A shares, the expenses attributable to payments under the
plan also will increase (but will not exceed 0.10% of average daily net
assets). While this is the currently anticipated calculation for fees payable
under the Class A plan, the plan permits the board to allow the fund to pay a
full 0.10% on all assets at any time. The approval of the board would be
required to change the calculation of the payments to be made under the Class
A plan.
The Class A plan does not permit unreimbursed expenses incurred in a
particular year to be carried over to or reimbursed in later years.
THE CLASS C PLAN. Under the Class C plan, each fund pays Distributors up to %
per year of the class's average daily net assets, payable quarterly, to pay
Distributors or others for providing distribution and related services and
bearing certain expenses. All distribution expenses over this amount will be
borne by those who have incurred them. The fund also may pay a servicing fee
of up to 0.15% per year of the class's average daily net assets, payable
quarterly. This fee may be used to pay securities dealers or others for,
among other things, helping to establish and maintain customer accounts and
records, helping with requests to buy and sell shares, receiving and
answering correspondence, monitoring dividend payments from the fund on
behalf of customers, and similar servicing and account maintenance
activities.
The expenses relating to the Class C plan also are used to pay Distributors
for advancing the commission costs to securities dealers with respect to the
initial sale of Class C shares.
THE CLASS A AND C PLANS. In addition to the payments that Distributors or
others are entitled to under each plan, each plan also provides that to the
extent the fund, the manager or Distributors or other parties on behalf of
the fund, the manager or Distributors make payments that are deemed to be for
the financing of any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of
fund shares within the context of Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act
of 1940, as amended, then such payments shall be deemed to have been made
pursuant to the plan. The terms and provisions of each plan relating to
required reports, term, and approval are consistent with Rule 12b-1.
In no event shall the aggregate asset-based sales charges, which include
payments made under each plan, plus any other payments deemed to be made
pursuant to a plan, exceed the amount permitted to be paid under the rules of
the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
To the extent fees are for distribution or marketing functions, as
distinguished from administrative servicing or agency transactions, certain
banks will not be entitled to participate in the plans as a result of
applicable federal law prohibiting certain banks from engaging in the
distribution of mutual fund shares. These banking institutions, however, are
permitted to receive fees under the plans for administrative servicing or for
agency transactions. If you are a customer of a bank that is prohibited from
providing these services, you would be permitted to remain a shareholder of
the fund, and alternate means for continuing the servicing would be sought.
In this event, changes in the services provided might occur and you might no
longer be able to avail yourself of any automatic investment or other
services then being provided by the bank. It is not expected that you would
suffer any adverse financial consequences as a result of any of these changes.
Each plan has been approved in accordance with the provisions of Rule 12b-1.
The plans are renewable annually by a vote of the board, including a majority
vote of the board members who are not interested persons of the fund and who
have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the plans,
cast in person at a meeting called for that purpose. It is also required that
the selection and nomination of such board members be done by the
noninterested members of the fund's board. The plans and any related
agreement may be terminated at any time, without penalty, by vote of a
majority of the noninterested board members on not more than 60 days' written
notice, by Distributors on not more than 60 days' written notice, by any act
that constitutes an assignment of the management agreement with the manager
or by vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the class. The Arizona
and Florida plans also may be terminated by any act that constitutes an
assignment of the underwriting agreement with Distributors. Distributors or
any dealer or other firm also may terminate their respective distribution or
service agreement at any time upon written notice.
The plans and any related agreements may not be amended to increase
materially the amount to be spent for distribution expenses without approval
by a majority of the outstanding shares of the class, and all material
amendments to the plans or any related agreements shall be approved by a vote
of the noninterested board members, cast in person at a meeting called for
the purpose of voting on any such amendment.
Distributors is required to report in writing to the board at least quarterly
on the amounts and purpose of any payment made under the plans and any
related agreements, as well as to furnish the board with such other
information as may reasonably be requested in order to enable the board to
make an informed determination of whether the plans should be continued.
For the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999, Distributors' eligible
expenditures for advertising, printing, and payments to underwriters and
broker-dealers pursuant to the plans and the amounts the funds paid
Distributors under the plans were:
DISTRIBUTORS' AMOUNT PAID
ELIGIBLE EXPENSES ($) BY THE FUND ($)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund - Class A 125,733 65,600
Florida Fund - Class A 199,058 111,406
Insured Fund - Class A 1,677,988 1,462,142
Insured Fund - Class C 576,359 317,040
Massachusetts Fund -
Class A 394,624 296,290
Massachusetts Fund -
Class C 226,351 119,178
Michigan Fund - Class A 1,202,034 1,012,546
Michigan Fund - Class C 409,772 260,992
Minnesota Fund - Class A 559,945 438,850
Minnesota Fund - Class C 156,706 94,930
Ohio Fund - Class A 799,316 673,157
Ohio Fund - Class C 339,665 222,379
PERFORMANCE
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Performance quotations are subject to SEC rules. These rules require the use
of standardized performance quotations or, alternatively, that every
non-standardized performance quotation furnished by the fund be accompanied
by certain standardized performance information computed as required by the
SEC. Average annual total return and current yield quotations used by the
fund are based on the standardized methods of computing performance mandated
by the SEC. Performance figures reflect Rule 12b-1 fees from the date of the
plan's implementation. An explanation of these and other methods used by the
fund to compute or express performance follows. Regardless of the method
used, past performance does not guarantee future results, and is an
indication of the return to shareholders only for the limited historical
period used.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN Average annual total return is determined by
finding the average annual rates of return over the periods indicated below
that would equate an initial hypothetical $1,000 investment to its ending
redeemable value. The calculation assumes the maximum initial sales charge is
deducted from the initial $1,000 purchase, and income dividends and capital
gain distributions are reinvested at net asset value. The quotation assumes
the account was completely redeemed at the end of each period and the
deduction of all applicable charges and fees. If a change is made to the
sales charge structure, historical performance information will be restated
to reflect the maximum initial sales charge currently in effect.
When considering the average annual total return quotations, you should keep
in mind that the maximum initial sales charge reflected in each quotation is
a one time fee charged on all direct purchases, which will have its greatest
impact during the early stages of your investment. This charge will affect
actual performance less the longer you retain your investment in the fund.
The average annual total returns for the indicated periods ended February 28,
1999, were:
INCEPTION 1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS SINCE
DATE INCEPTION
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS A
Arizona Fund 4/30/93 1.24% 5.67% - 5.91%
Florida Fund 4/30/93 1.54% 5.46% - 5.38%
Insured Fund 4/03/85 1.20% 4.95% 7.11% 7.97%
Massachusetts Fund 4/03/85 0.89% 4.91% 6.89% 7.30%
Michigan Fund 4/03/85 1.73% 5.11% 7.08% 7.68%
Minnesota Fund 4/03/85 0.71% 4.57% 6.61% 7.56%
Ohio Fund 4/03/85 1.17% 4.98% 7.03% 7.67%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- ------------------------------------------------
CLASS C
Insured Fund 3.04% 6.09%
Massachusetts Fund 2.70% 6.04%
Michigan Fund 3.70% 6.36%
Minnesota Fund 2.57% 5.53%
Ohio Fund 3.03% 6.25%
The following SEC formula was used to calculate these figures:
n
P(1+T) = ERV
where:
P = a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000
T = average annual total return
n = number of years
ERV = ending redeemable value of a hypothetical $1,000
payment made at the beginning of each period at the end of
each period
CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN Like average annual total return, cumulative total
return assumes the maximum initial sales charge is deducted from the initial
$1,000 purchase, and income dividends and capital gain distributions are
reinvested at net asset value. Cumulative total return, however, is based on
the actual return for a specified period rather than on the average return
over the periods indicated above. The cumulative total returns for the
indicated periods ended February 28, 1999, were:
INCEPTION 1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS SINCE
DATE INCEPTION
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS A
Arizona Fund 4/30/93 1.24% 31.74% - 39.80%
Florida Fund 4/30/93 1.54% 30.47% - 35.74%
Insured Fund 4/03/85 1.20% 27.30% 98.82% 190.59%
Massachusetts Fund 4/03/85 0.89% 27.11% 94.66% 166.24%
Michigan Fund 4/03/85 1.73% 28.32% 98.24% 179.98%
Minnesota Fund 4/03/85 0.71% 25.02% 89.61% 175.48%
Ohio Fund 4/03/85 1.17% 27.53% 97.28% 179.58%
1 YEAR SINCE INCEPTION
(5/1/95)
- ---------------------------------------------------------
CLASS C
Insured Fund 3.04% 25.42%
Massachusetts Fund 2.70% 25.20%
Michigan Fund 3.70% 26.63%
Minnesota Fund 2.57% 22.92%
Ohio Fund 3.03% 26.12%
CURRENT YIELD Current yield shows the income per share earned by the fund.
It is calculated by dividing the net investment income per share earned
during a 30-day base period by the applicable maximum offering price per
share on the last day of the period and annualizing the result. Expenses
accrued for the period include any fees charged to all shareholders of the
class during the base period. The yields for the 30-day period ended February
28, 1999, were:
CLASS A CLASS C
- -----------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund 3.81% -
Florida Fund 3.79% -
Insured Fund 3.83% 3.38%
Massachusetts Fund 3.75% 3.33%
Michigan Fund 3.71% 3.28%
Minnesota Fund 3.83% 3.41%
Ohio Fund 3.84% 3.42%
The following SEC formula was used to calculate these figures:
6
Yield = 2 [(A-B + 1) - 1]
cd
where:
a = interest earned during the period
b = expenses accrued for the period (net of reimbursements)
c = the average daily number of shares outstanding during the period that
were entitled to receive dividends
d = the maximum offering price per share on the last day of the period
TAXABLE-EQUIVALENT YIELD The fund also may quote a taxable-equivalent
yield that shows the before-tax yield that would have to be earned from a
taxable investment to equal the yield. Taxable-equivalent yield is
computed by dividing the portion of the yield that is tax-exempt by one
minus the highest applicable combined federal or federal and state income
tax rate and adding the product to the portion of the yield that is not
tax-exempt, if any. The taxable-equivalent yields for the 30-day period
ended February 28, 1999, were:
CLASS A CLASS C
- -----------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund 6.64% -
Florida Fund 6.27% -
Insured Fund 6.34% 5.60%
Massachusetts Fund 6.60% 5.86%
Michigan Fund 6.43% 5.68%
Minnesota Fund 6.93% 6.17%
Ohio Fund 6.82% 6.08%
As of February 28, 1999, the federal and combined federal and state income
tax rate upon which the taxable-equivalent yield quotations were based
were as follows:
COMBINED RATE
- -------------------------------------
Arizona Fund 42.6%
Florida Fund 39.6%
Insured Fund 39.6%
Massachusetts Fund 43.2%
Michigan Fund 42.3%
Minnesota Fund 44.7%
Ohio Fund 43.7%
From time to time, as any changes to the rate become effective,
taxable-equivalent yield quotations advertised by the fund will be updated
to reflect these changes. The fund expects updates may be necessary as tax
rates are changed by federal and state governments. The advantage of
tax-free investments, like the fund, will be enhanced by any tax rate
increases. Therefore, the details of specific tax increases may be used in
sales material for the fund.
CURRENT DISTRIBUTION RATE Current yield and taxable-equivalent yield, which
are calculated according to a formula prescribed by the SEC, are not
indicative of the amounts which were or will be paid to shareholders. Amounts
paid to shareholders are reflected in the quoted current distribution rate or
taxable-equivalent distribution rate. The current distribution rate is
usually computed by annualizing the dividends paid per share by a class
during a certain period and dividing that amount by the current maximum
offering price. The current distribution rate differs from the current yield
computation because it may include distributions to shareholders from sources
other than interest, if any such as short-term capital gains, and is
calculated over a different period of time. The current distribution rates
for the 30-day period ended February 28, 1999, were:
CLASS A CLASS C
- -----------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund 4.45% -
Florida Fund 4.47% -
Insured Fund 4.78% 4.31%
Massachusetts Fund 4.66% 4.22%
Michigan Fund 4.63% 4.15%
Minnesota Fund 4.73% 4.31%
Ohio Fund 4.69% 4.26%
A taxable-equivalent distribution rate shows the taxable distribution rate
equivalent to the current distribution rate. The advertised
taxable-equivalent distribution rate will reflect the most current federal
and state tax rates available to the fund. The taxable-equivalent
distribution rates for the 30-day period ended February 28, 1999, were:
CLASS A CLASS C
- -----------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund 7.76% -
Florida Fund 7.40% -
Insured Fund 7.91% 7.14%
Massachusetts Fund 8.20% 7.43%
Michigan Fund 8.02% 7.19%
Minnesota Fund 8.56% 7.80%
Ohio Fund 8.33% 7.57%
VOLATILITY Occasionally statistics may be used to show the fund's volatility
or risk. Measures of volatility or risk are generally used to compare the
fund's net asset value or performance to a market index. One measure of
volatility is beta. Beta is the volatility of a fund relative to the total
market, as represented by an index considered representative of the types of
securities in which the fund invests. A beta of more than 1.00 indicates
volatility greater than the market and a beta of less than 1.00 indicates
volatility less than the market. Another measure of volatility or risk is
standard deviation. Standard deviation is used to measure variability of net
asset value or total return around an average over a specified period of
time. The idea is that greater volatility means greater risk undertaken in
achieving performance.
OTHER PERFORMANCE QUOTATIONS The fund also may quote the performance of
shares without a sales charge. Sales literature and advertising may quote a
cumulative total return, average annual total return and other measures of
performance with the substitution of net asset value for the public offering
price.
The fund may include in its advertising or sales material information
relating to investment goals and performance results of funds belonging to
the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Franklin Resources, Inc. is the parent
company of the advisors and underwriter of the Franklin Templeton Group of
Funds.
COMPARISONS To help you better evaluate how an investment in the fund may
satisfy your investment goal, advertisements and other materials about the
fund may discuss certain measures of fund performance as reported by various
financial publications. Materials also may compare performance (as calculated
above) to performance as reported by other investments, indices, and
averages. These comparisons may include, but are not limited to, the
following examples:
o Salomon Brothers Broad Bond Index or its component indices - measures
yield, price and total return for Treasury, agency, corporate and
mortgage bonds.
o Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index or its component indices - measures
yield, price and total return for Treasury, agency, corporate, mortgage
and Yankee bonds.
o Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index or its component indices - measures
yield, price and total return for the municipal bond market.
o Bond Buyer 20 Index - an index of municipal bond yields based upon
yields of 20 general obligation bonds maturing in 20 years.
o Bond Buyer 40 Index - an index composed of the yield to maturity of 40
bonds. The index attempts to track the new-issue market as closely as
possible, so it changes bonds twice a month, adding all new bonds that
meet certain requirements and deleting an equivalent number according
to their secondary market trading activity. As a result, the average
par call date, average maturity date, and average coupon rate can and
have changed over time. The average maturity generally has been about
29-30 years.
o Financial publications: The WALL STREET JOURNAL, and BUSINESS WEEK,
FINANCIAL WORLD, FORBES, FORTUNE, and MONEY magazines - provide
performance statistics over specified time periods.
o Salomon Brothers Composite High Yield Index or its component indices -
measures yield, price and total return for the Long-Term High-Yield
Index, Intermediate-Term High-Yield Index, and Long-Term Utility
High-Yield Index.
o Historical data supplied by the research departments of CS First Boston
Corporation, the J. P. Morgan companies, Salomon Brothers, Merrill
Lynch, Lehman Brothers and Bloomberg L.P.
o Morningstar - information published by Morningstar, Inc., including
Morningstar proprietary mutual fund ratings. The ratings reflect
Morningstar's assessment of the historical risk-adjusted performance of a
fund over specified time periods relative to other funds within its
category.
o Lipper - Mutual Fund Performance Analysis and Lipper - Fixed Income Fund
Performance Analysis - measure total return and average current yield
for the mutual fund industry and rank individual mutual fund
performance over specified time periods, assuming reinvestment of all
distributions, exclusive of any applicable sales charges.
From time to time, advertisements or information for the fund may include a
discussion of certain attributes or benefits to be derived from an investment
in the fund. The advertisements or information may include symbols,
headlines, or other material that highlights or summarizes the information
discussed in more detail in the communication.
Advertisements or sales material issued by the fund also may discuss or be
based upon information in a recent issue of the Special Report on Tax Freedom
Day published by the Tax Foundation, a Washington, D.C. based nonprofit
research and public education organization. The report illustrates, among
other things, the annual amount of time the average taxpayer works to satisfy
his or her tax obligations to the federal, state and local taxing authorities.
Advertisements or information also may compare the fund's performance to the
return on certificates of deposit (CDs) or other investments. You should be
aware, however, that an investment in the fund involves the risk of
fluctuation of principal value, a risk generally not present in an investment
in a CD issued by a bank. For example, as the general level of interest rates
rise, the value of the fund's fixed-income investments, as well as the value
of its shares that are based upon the value of such portfolio investments,
can be expected to decrease. Conversely, when interest rates decrease, the
value of the fund's shares can be expected to increase. CDs are frequently
insured by an agency of the U.S. government. An investment in the fund is not
insured by any federal, state or private entity.
In assessing comparisons of performance, you should keep in mind that the
composition of the investments in the reported indices and averages is not
identical to the fund's portfolio, the indices and averages are generally
unmanaged, and the items included in the calculations of the averages may not
be identical to the formula used by the fund to calculate its figures. In
addition, there can be no assurance that the fund will continue its
performance as compared to these other averages.
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fund may help you achieve various investment goals such as accumulating
money for retirement, saving for a down payment on a home, college costs and
other long-term goals. The Franklin College Costs Planner may help you in
determining how much money must be invested on a monthly basis in order to
have a projected amount available in the future to fund a child's college
education. (Projected college cost estimates are based upon current costs
published by the College Board.) The Franklin Retirement Planning Guide leads
you through the steps to start a retirement savings program. Of course, an
investment in the fund cannot guarantee that these goals will be met.
The fund is a member of the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds, one of the
largest mutual fund organizations in the U.S., and may be considered in a
program for diversification of assets. Founded in 1947, Franklin is one of
the oldest mutual fund organizations and now services more than 4 million
shareholder accounts. In 1992, Franklin, a leader in managing fixed-income
mutual funds and an innovator in creating domestic equity funds, joined
forces with Templeton, a pioneer in international investing. The Mutual
Series team, known for its value-driven approach to domestic equity
investing, became part of the organization four years later. Together, the
Franklin Templeton Group has over $216 billion in assets under management for
approximately 7 million U.S. based mutual fund shareholder and other
accounts. The Franklin Templeton Group of Funds offers 114 U.S. based open-end
investment companies to the public. The fund may identify itself by its
NASDAQ symbol or CUSIP number.
Franklin is a leader in the tax-free mutual fund industry and manages more
than $51 billion in municipal security assets for over three quarters of a
million investors. According to Research and Ratings Review, Franklin had one
of the largest staffs of municipal securities analysts in the industry, as of
June 30, 1998.
Under current tax laws, municipal securities remain one of the few
investments offering the potential for tax-free income. In 1999, taxes could
cost almost $47 on every $100 earned from a fully taxable investment (based
on the maximum combined 39.6% federal tax rate and the highest state tax rate
of 12% for 1999). Franklin tax-free funds, however, offer tax relief through
a professionally managed portfolio of tax-free securities selected based on
their yield, quality and maturity. An investment in a Franklin tax-free fund
can provide you with the potential to earn income free of federal taxes and,
depending on the fund, state and local taxes as well, while supporting state
and local public projects. Franklin tax-free funds also may provide tax-free
compounding, when dividends are reinvested. An investment in Franklin's
tax-free funds can grow more rapidly than similar taxable investments.
Municipal securities are generally considered to be creditworthy, second in
quality only to securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government and
its agencies. The market price of municipal securities, however, may
fluctuate. This fluctuation will have a direct impact on the net asset value
of the fund's shares.
Currently, there are more mutual funds than there are stocks listed on the
New York Stock Exchange. While many of them have similar investment goals, no
two are exactly alike. Shares of the fund are generally sold through
securities dealers, whose investment representatives are experienced
professionals who can offer advice on the type of investments suitable to
your unique goals and needs, as well as the risks associated with such
investments.
The Information Services & Technology division of Franklin Resources, Inc.
(Resources) established a Year 2000 Project Team in 1996. This team has
already begun making necessary software changes to help the computer systems
that service the fund and its shareholders to be Year 2000 compliant. After
completing these modifications, comprehensive tests are conducted in one of
Resources' U.S. test labs to verify their effectiveness. Resources continues
to seek reasonable assurances from all major hardware, software or
data-services suppliers that they will be Year 2000 compliant on a timely
basis. Resources is also beginning to develop a contingency plan, including
identification of those mission critical systems for which it is practical to
develop a contingency plan. However, in an operation as complex and
geographically distributed as Resources' business, the alternatives to use of
normal systems, especially mission critical systems, or supplies of
electricity or long distance voice and data lines are limited.
DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MUNICIPAL BOND RATINGS
MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. (MOODY'S)
Aaa: Municipal bonds rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt-edged." Interest payments are protected by a large or exceptionally
stable margin, and principal is secure. While the various protective elements
are likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to
impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
Aa: Municipal bonds rated Aa are judged to be high quality by all standards.
Together with the Aaa group, they comprise what are generally known as
high-grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large, fluctuation of protective elements may be of
greater amplitude, or there may be other elements present that make the
long-term risks appear somewhat larger.
A: Municipal bonds rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and
are considered upper medium-grade obligations. Factors giving security to
principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present
that suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Baa: Municipal bonds rated Baa are considered medium-grade obligations. They
are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and
principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any
great length of time. These bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics
and, in fact, have speculative characteristics as well.
Ba: Municipal bonds rated Ba are judged to have predominantly speculative
elements and their future cannot be considered well assured. Often the
protection of interest and principal payments may be very moderate and,
thereby, not well safeguarded during both good and bad times over the future.
Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class.
B: Municipal bonds rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable
investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of
other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
Caa: Municipal bonds rated Caa are of poor standing. These issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal
or interest.
Ca: Municipal bonds rated Ca represent obligations that are speculative to a
high degree. These issues are often in default or have other marked
shortcomings.
C: Municipal bonds rated C are the lowest-rated class of bonds and issues so
rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining
any real investment standing.
Con.(-): Municipal bonds for which the security depends upon the completion
of some act or the fulfillment of some condition are rated conditionally.
These are bonds secured by (a) earnings of projects under construction, (b)
earnings of projects unseasoned in operation experience, (c) rentals that
begin when facilities are completed, or (d) payments to which some other
limiting condition attaches. Parenthetical rating denotes probable credit
stature upon the completion of construction or the elimination of the basis
of the condition.
STANDARD & POOR'S CORPORATION (S&P)
AAA: Municipal bonds rated AAA are the highest-grade obligations. They
possess the ultimate degree of protection as to principal and interest. In
the market, they move with interest rates and, hence, provide the maximum
safety on all counts.
AA: Municipal bonds rated AA also qualify as high-grade obligations, and in
the majority of instances differ from AAA issues only in a small degree.
Here, too, prices move with the long-term money market.
A: Municipal bonds rated A are regarded as upper medium-grade. They have
considerable investment strength but are not entirely free from adverse
effects of changes in economic and trade conditions. Interest and principal
are regarded as safe. They predominantly reflect money rates in their market
behavior but also, to some extent, economic conditions.
BBB: Municipal bonds rated BBB are regarded as having an adequate capacity to
pay principal and interest. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate protection
parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more
likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay principal and interest for bonds
in this category than for bonds in the A category.
BB, B, CCC, CC: Municipal bonds rated BB, B, CCC and CC are regarded, on
balance, as predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity
to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the
obligations. BB indicates the lowest degree of speculation and CC the highest
degree of speculation. While these bonds will likely have some quality and
protective characteristics, they are outweighed by large uncertainties or
major risk exposures to adverse conditions.
C: This rating is reserved for income bonds on which no interest is being
paid.
D: Debt rated "D" is in default and payment of interest and/or repayment of
principal is in arrears.
Plus (+) or minus (-): The ratings from "AA" to "CCC" may be modified by the
addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within the major
rating categories.
FITCH INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. (FITCH)
AAA: Municipal bonds rated AAA are considered to be investment grade and of
the highest credit quality. The obligor has an exceptionally strong ability
to pay interest and repay principal that is unlikely to be affected by
reasonably foreseeable events.
AA: Municipal bonds rated AA are considered to be investment grade and of
very high credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay
principal is very strong although not quite as strong as bonds rated AAA and
not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable future developments.
A: Municipal bonds rated A are considered to be investment grade and of high
credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is
considered to be strong, but may be more vulnerable to adverse changes in
economic conditions and circumstances than bonds with higher ratings.
BBB: Municipal bonds rated BBB are considered to be investment grade and of
satisfactory credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay
principal is considered adequate. Adverse changes in economic conditions and
circumstances, however, are more likely to have an adverse impact on these
bonds, and therefore impair timely payment. The likelihood that the ratings
of these bonds will fall below investment grade is higher than for bonds with
higher ratings.
BB: Municipal bonds rated BB are considered speculative. The obligor's
ability to pay interest and repay principal may be affected over time by
adverse economic changes. Business and financial alternatives can be
identified, however, that could assist the obligor in satisfying its debt
service requirements.
B: Municipal bonds rated B are considered highly speculative. While bonds in
this class are currently meeting debt service requirements, the probability
of continued timely payment of principal and interest reflects the obligor's
limited margin of safety and the need for reasonable business and economic
activity throughout the life of the issue.
CCC: Municipal bonds rated CCC have certain identifiable characteristics
which, if not remedied, may lead to default. The ability to meet obligations
requires an advantageous business and economic environment.
CC: Municipal bonds rated CC are minimally protected. Default in payment of
interest and/or principal seems probable over time.
C: Municipal bonds rated C are in imminent default in the payment of interest
or principal.
DDD, DD and D: Municipal bonds rated DDD, DD and D are in default on interest
and/or principal payments. Such bonds are extremely speculative and should be
valued on the basis of their ultimate recovery value in liquidation or
reorganization of the obligor. DDD represents the highest potential for
recovery while D represents the lowest potential for recovery.
Plus (+) or minus (-) signs are used with a rating symbol to indicate the
relative position of a credit within the rating category. Plus or minus signs
are not used with the AAA, DDD, DD or D categories.
MUNICIPAL NOTE RATINGS
MOODY'S
Moody's ratings for state, municipal and other short-term obligations will be
designated Moody's Investment Grade (MIG). This distinction is in recognition
of the differences between short-term credit risk and long-term risk. Factors
affecting the liquidity of the borrower are uppermost in importance in
short-term borrowing; factors of the first importance in long-term borrowing
risk are of lesser importance in the short run. Symbols used will be as
follows:
MIG 1: Notes are of the best quality enjoying strong protection from
established cash flows of funds for their servicing or from established and
broad-based access to the market for refinancing, or both.
MIG 2: Notes are of high quality, with margins of protection ample, although
not so large as in the preceding group.
MIG 3: Notes are of favorable quality, with all security elements accounted
for, but lacking the undeniable strength of the preceding grades. Market
access for refinancing, in particular, is likely to be less well established.
MIG 4: Notes are of adequate quality, carrying specific risk but having
protection and not distinctly or predominantly speculative.
S&P
Until June 29, 1984, S&P used the same rating symbols for notes and bonds.
After June 29, 1984, for new municipal note issues due in three years or
less, the ratings below will usually be assigned. Notes maturing beyond three
years will most likely receive a bond rating of the type recited above.
SP-1: Issues carrying this designation have a very strong or strong capacity
to pay principal and interest. Issues determined to possess overwhelming
safety characteristics will be given a "plus" (+) designation.
SP-2: Issues carrying this designation have a satisfactory capacity to pay
principal and interest.
COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
MOODY'S
Moody's commercial paper ratings, which are also applicable to municipal
paper investments, are opinions of the ability of issuers to repay punctually
their promissory obligations not having an original maturity in excess of
nine months. Moody's employs the following designations for both short-term
debt and commercial paper, all judged to be investment grade, to indicate the
relative repayment capacity of rated issuers:
P-1 (Prime-1): Superior capacity for repayment.
P-2 (Prime-2): Strong capacity for repayment.
S&P
S&P's ratings are a current assessment of the likelihood of timely payment of
debt having an original maturity of no more than 365 days. Ratings are graded
into four categories, ranging from "A" for the highest quality obligations to
"D" for the lowest. Issues within the "A" category are delineated with the
numbers 1, 2 and 3 to indicate the relative degree of safety, as follows:
A-1: This designation indicates the degree of safety regarding timely payment
is very strong. A "plus" (+) designation indicates an even stronger
likelihood of timely payment.
A-2: Capacity for timely payment on issues with this designation is strong.
The relative degree of safety, however, is not as overwhelming as for issues
designated A-1.
A-3: Issues carrying this designation have a satisfactory capacity for timely
payment. They are, however, somewhat more vulnerable to the adverse effects
of changes in circumstances than obligations carrying the higher designations.
FITCH
Fitch's short-term ratings apply to debt obligations that are payable on
demand or have original maturities of generally up to three years, including
commercial paper, certificates of deposit, medium-term notes, and municipal
and investment notes. The short-term rating places greater emphasis than a
long-term rating on the existence of liquidity necessary to meet the issuer's
obligations in a timely manner.
F-1+: Exceptionally strong credit quality. Regarded as having the strongest
degree of assurance for timely payment.
F-1: Very strong credit quality. Reflect an assurance of timely payment only
slightly less in degree than issues rated F-1+.
F-2: Good credit quality. A satisfactory degree of assurance for timely
payment, but the margin of safety is not as great as for issues assigned F-1+
and F-1 ratings.
F-3: Fair credit quality. Have characteristics suggesting that the degree of
assurance for timely payment is adequate; however, near-term adverse changes
could cause these securities to be rated below investment grade.
F-5: Weak credit quality. Have characteristics suggesting a minimal degree of
assurance for timely payment and are vulnerable to near-term adverse changes
in financial and economic conditions.
D: Default. Actual or imminent payment default.
LOC: The symbol LOC indicates that the rating is based on a letter of credit
issued by a commercial bank.
STATE TAX TREATMENT
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following information on the state income tax treatment of dividends from
the funds is based upon correspondence and sources believed to be reliable.
Except where otherwise noted, the information pertains to individual state
income taxation only. You may be subject to local taxes on dividends or the
value of your shares. Corporations, trusts, estates and other entities may be
subject to other taxes and should consult with their tax advisors or their
state department of revenue. For some investors, a portion of the dividend
income may be subject to the federal and/or state alternative minimum tax.
ARIZONA
Sections 43-1021(4) and 43-1121(3) of the Arizona Income Tax Code state that
interest on obligations of the state of Arizona or its political subdivisions
is exempt from personal and corporate income tax. Sections 43-1022(6) and
43-1122(6) provide similar tax-exempt treatment for interest on obligations
of the U.S. or its territories (including Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin
Islands). Pursuant to State Income Tax Ruling Number 84-10-5, Arizona does
not tax dividend income from regulated investment companies, such as the
Arizona Fund, to the extent that such income is derived from such exempt
obligations. Dividends paid from interest earned on indirect U.S. government
obligations (GNMAs, FNMAs, etc.), or obligations from other states and their
political subdivisions are fully taxable. To the extent that such taxable
investments are made by the fund for temporary or defensive purposes, the
distributions will be taxable.
Any distributions of net short-term and net long-term capital gain earned by
the fund are included in each shareholder's Arizona taxable income as
dividend income and long-term capital gain, respectively, and are taxed at
ordinary income tax rates.
FLORIDA
Florida does not have a personal income tax but does have an intangible
personal property tax for residents. According to Florida Statute Section
199.185 and Technical Assistance Advisement 90(C)2-003, issued by the Florida
Department of Revenue on August 8, 1990 (as later revised), shares in
regulated investment companies organized as business trusts, such as the
Florida Fund, will not be subject to Florida's intangible property tax to the
extent that the fund is invested in exempt obligations of the U.S.
government, its agencies, instrumentalities or territories (including Puerto
Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands) at the close of business on the last
business day of the previous calendar year.
If the fund invests all of the remaining portion of its Net Asset Value in
exempt obligations of the state of Florida or its municipalities or political
subdivisions on such date, then that remaining portion of the Net Asset Value
of the fund (and corresponding value of fund shares) will also be exempt from
Florida's intangibles tax.
According to Florida Technical Assistance Advisement 94(c)2-025, if the fund
invests, such as for temporary or defensive purposes, any of the remaining
portion of its portfolio in any asset that is taxable under Florida's
intangible tax law, including investments in indirect federal obligations
(GNMAs, FNMAs, etc.) or obligations of any other states, then only the
portion of Net Asset Value, if any, that is made up of direct obligations of
the U.S. government, or territories and possessions of the U.S. government,
may be excluded from tax. The remaining Net Asset Value (and corresponding
value of fund shares) of the fund is subject to tax.
MASSACHUSETTS
Chapter 62, Section 2, of the Massachusetts General Laws states that
dividends received from a regulated investment company, such as the
Massachusetts Fund, are exempt from state personal income tax to the extent
that such dividends are attributable to interest on obligations of the U.S.
government or its territories (including Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin
Islands). Dividends received from the fund, which are either exempt-interest
dividends or capital gain dividends, to the extent that the interest or gains
are attributable to obligations of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, or any
political subdivision, agency or instrumentality within the commonwealth, are
also exempt from state personal income tax. Dividends paid from interest
earned on indirect U.S. government obligations (GNMAs, FNMAs, etc.) or other
obligations from other states and their political subdivisions are fully
taxable. To the extent that such taxable investments are made by the fund for
temporary or defensive purposes, the distributions will be taxable.
Capital gain dividends attributable to obligations other than of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, or any political subdivision, agency or
instrumentality thereof will be taxable as follows: Net short-term capital
gain distributions will be taxable as dividend income while net long-term
capital gain distributions will be taxable at reduced rates from zero to five
percent based upon the applicable holding period of the asset as determined
under Massachusetts law.
In determining the Massachusetts excise tax on corporations subject to state
taxation, distributions from the fund will generally be included in a
corporate shareholder's net income, and in the case of corporations that are
defined as "intangible property corporations," shares of the fund will be
included in the computation of net worth.
MICHIGAN
Section 206.30(1) of the Michigan Compiled Laws generally provides that
taxable income, for purposes of the Michigan individual income tax, is
determined by reference to federal adjusted gross income, with certain
modifications. Interest and dividends derived from obligations or securities
of states other than Michigan (less related expenses) must be added back in
determining Michigan taxable income. Interest and dividends derived from
obligations or securities of Michigan (and its political subdivisions) are
exempt and are not, therefore, added back in determining Michigan taxable
income. Further, income derived from obligations of the U.S. government that
the state is prohibited by law from subjecting to a net income tax is
subtracted in determining Michigan taxable income. This includes direct
obligations of the U.S. government, its agencies, instrumentalities, or
possessions (including Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands).
Revenue Administrative Bulletin 1986-3, states that a regulated investment
company, such as the Michigan Fund, which invests in tax-free municipal
obligations of the state of Michigan and its political and governmental
subdivisions is permitted to pass-through the exemption of such interest to
its shareholders to the extent that such interest qualifies as an
exempt-interest dividend of a regulated investment company. The exempt nature
of interest from obligations of the U.S. and its territories and possessions
may also be passed through to shareholders. Dividends paid from interest
earned on indirect U.S. government obligations (GNMAs, FNMAs, etc.) or other
obligations from other states and their political subdivisions are fully
taxable. To the extent that such taxable investments are made by the fund for
temporary or defensive purposes, the distributions will be taxable.
Any distributions of net short-term and net long-term capital gains earned by
the fund will generally be included in each shareholder's Michigan taxable
income as dividend income and long-term capital gain, respectively, and taxed
at ordinary income tax rates.
Section 205.133 of the Michigan Compiled Laws exempts from the intangible
personal property tax obligations of the state of Michigan and its political
subdivisions and obligations of the U.S. and its possessions, agencies and
instrumentalities. Pursuant to Revenue Administrative Bulletin 1986-3, an
owner of a share of a regulated investment company, such as the Michigan
Fund, will be considered the owner of a pro-rata share of the assets of such
regulated investment company. It further provides that yield (for intangibles
tax purposes) is determined with respect to shares of the Michigan Fund by
excluding from gross dividends or interest the pro rata share of the interest
or dividends received from such exempt obligations held by the fund.
According to Michigan tax return instructions, capital gains from a regulated
investment company that are reinvested in additional shares of the fund are
exempt from intangibles taxes, whereas capital gains distributed in cash are
taxable. In 1995, legislation was passed repealing this intangible personal
property tax effective January 1, 1998.
MINNESOTA
Section 290.01 of the Code of Minnesota states that individual shareholders
will generally not be subject to state income taxation on the exempt-interest
dividends distributed by a regulated investment company, such as the
Minnesota Fund, provided that at least 95% of the exempt-interest dividends
are derived from obligations of the state of Minnesota, or its political or
governmental subdivisions. However, such dividends are taken into account in
computing the state's alternative minimum tax to the extent they are derived
from Minnesota private activity bonds. Minnesota Rule 8002.0300 generally
states that dividends paid by the fund, to the extent attributable to
interest derived from obligations of the U.S. government, its authorities,
commissions, instrumentalities or territories (including Puerto Rico, Guam
and the Virgin Islands), will also be exempt from Minnesota's personal income
tax. As a matter of policy, the fund will continue to earn at least 95% of
its income from interest on Minnesota obligations and invest less than 5%
from direct U.S. government, Puerto Rico or other obligations to ensure that
the fund continues to qualify to pay exempt-interest dividends on income from
Minnesota obligations. Dividends paid from interest earned on indirect U.S.
government obligations (GNMAs, FNMAs, etc.) or other obligations from other
states and their political subdivisions are fully taxable. To the extent that
such taxable investments are made by the fund for temporary or defensive
purposes, the distributions will be taxable.
Any distributions of net short-term and net long-term capital gains earned by
the fund are included in each shareholder's Minnesota taxable income as
dividend income and long-term capital gain respectively, and are taxed at
ordinary income tax rates.
OHIO
Section 5747.01(A) of the Ohio Revised Code states generally that interest on
obligations of the state of Ohio and its subdivisions and authorities and of
the U.S. and its territories and possessions (to the extent included in
federal adjusted gross income but exempt from state income taxes under U.S.
laws) is exempt from Ohio state personal income tax. Distributions of such
income by regulated investment companies, such as the Ohio Fund, will also be
exempt from the Ohio personal income tax and the Ohio corporation franchise
tax computed on the net income basis. Shares of the Ohio Fund will, however,
be included in a shareholder's tax base for purposes of computing the Ohio
corporation franchise tax on the net worth basis. Dividends paid from
interest earned on indirect U.S. government obligations (GNMAs, FNMAs, etc.)
or other obligations from other states and their political subdivisions are
fully taxable. To the extent that such taxable investments are made by the
fund for temporary or defensive purposes, the distributions will be taxable
on a pro rata basis.
Shareholders who are subject to the Ohio personal income tax or the Ohio
corporation franchise tax computed on the net income basis will not be
subject to such taxes on distributions of "capital gain dividends" to the
extent that such distributions are attributable to profit made on the sale,
exchange or other disposition by the Ohio Fund of exempt obligations of the
state of Ohio and its subdivisions and authorities.
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST
FRANKLIN ALABAMA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
FRANKLIN FLORIDA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
FRANKLIN GEORGIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
FRANKLIN KENTUCKY TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
FRANKLIN LOUISIANA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
FRANKLIN MARYLAND TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
FRANKLIN MISSOURI TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
FRANKLIN NORTH CAROLINA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
FRANKLIN TEXAS TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
FRANKLIN VIRGINIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
CLASS A & C
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
JULY 1, 1999
P.O. BOX 997151
SACRAMENTO, CA 95899-9983 1-800/DIAL BEN(R)
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) is not a prospectus. It
contains information in addition to the information in the funds' prospectus.
The funds' prospectus, dated July 1, 1999, which we may amend from time to
time, contains the basic information you should know before investing in the
funds. You should read this SAI together with the funds' prospectus.
The audited financial statements and auditor's report in the trust's Annual
Report to Shareholders, for the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999, are
incorporated by reference (are legally a part of this SAI).
For a free copy of the current prospectus or annual report, contact your
investment representative or call 1-800/DIAL BEN (1-800/342-5236).
CONTENTS
Goals and Strategies
Risks
Officers and Trustees
Management and Other Services
Portfolio Transactions
Distributions and Taxes
Organization, Voting Rights and Principal Holders
Buying and Selling Shares
Pricing Shares
The Underwriter
Performance
Miscellaneous Information
Description of Ratings
State Tax Treatment
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MUTUAL FUNDS, ANNUITIES, AND OTHER INVESTMENT PRODUCTS:
o ARE NOT FEDERALLY INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION,
THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD, OR ANY OTHER AGENCY OF THE U.S. GOVERNMENT;
o ARE NOT DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS OF, OR GUARANTEED OR ENDORSED BY, ANY
BANK;
o ARE SUBJECT TO INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING THE POSSIBLE LOSS OF PRINCIPAL.
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GOALS AND STRATEGIES
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Each fund's investment goal is to provide investors with as high a level of
income exempt from federal income taxes as is consistent with prudent
investing, while seeking preservation of shareholders' capital. Each fund
also tries to provide a maximum level of income exempt from personal income
taxes, if any, for resident shareholders of the fund's state. These goals are
fundamental, which means they may not be changed without shareholder
approval. Of course, there is no assurance that any fund will meet its goal.
As fundamental policies, each fund normally invests at least 80% of its net
assets in securities that pay interest free from federal income taxes,
including the federal alternative minimum tax, and at least 80% of its net
assets in securities that pay interest free from the personal income taxes,
if any, of its state. As a nonfundamental policy, each fund also normally
invests at least 65% of its total assets in municipal securities of its
state.
Municipal securities issued by a fund's state or that state's counties,
municipalities, authorities, agencies, or other subdivisions, as well as
municipal securities issued by U.S. territories such as Guam, Puerto Rico, or
the Mariana Islands, generally pay interest free from federal income tax and
from state personal income taxes, if any, for residents of the fund's state.
Each fund tries to invest all of its assets in tax-free municipal securities.
The issuer's bond counsel generally gives the issuer an opinion on the
tax-exempt status of a municipal security when the security is issued.
Some states may require a fund to invest a certain amount of its assets in
securities of that state, or in securities that are otherwise tax-free under
the laws of that state, in order for any portion of the fund's distributions
to be free from the state's personal income taxes. If a fund's state requires
this, the fund will try to invest its assets as required so that its
distributions will be free from personal income taxes for resident
shareholder's of the fund's state.
Below is a description of various types of municipal and other securities
that each fund may buy. Other types of municipal securities may become
available that are similar to those described below and in which each fund
may also invest, if consistent with its investment goal and policies.
TAX ANTICIPATION NOTES are issued to finance short-term working capital needs
of municipalities in anticipation of various seasonal tax revenues, which
will be used to pay the notes. They are usually general obligations of the
issuer, secured by the taxing power for the payment of principal and interest.
REVENUE ANTICIPATION NOTES are similar to tax anticipation notes except they
are issued in expectation of the receipt of other kinds of revenue, such as
federal revenues available under the Federal Revenue Sharing Program.
BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES are normally issued to provide interim financing
until long-term financing can be arranged. Proceeds from long-term bond
issues then provide the money for the repayment of the notes.
CONSTRUCTION LOAN NOTES are issued to provide construction financing for
specific projects. After successful completion and acceptance, many projects
receive permanent financing through the Federal Housing Administration under
the Federal National Mortgage Association or the Government National Mortgage
Association.
TAX-EXEMPT COMMERCIAL PAPER typically represents a short-term obligation (270
days or less) issued by a municipality to meet working capital needs.
MUNICIPAL BONDS meet longer-term capital needs and generally have maturities
from one to 30 years when issued. They have two principal classifications:
general obligation bonds and revenue bonds.
GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS. Issuers of general obligation bonds include states,
counties, cities, towns and regional districts. The proceeds of these
obligations are used to fund a wide range of public projects, including
construction or improvement of schools, highways and roads. The basic
security behind general obligation bonds is the issuer's pledge of its full
faith, credit and taxing power for the payment of principal and interest. The
taxes that can be levied for the payment of debt service may be limited or
unlimited as to the rate or amount of special assessments.
REVENUE BONDS. The full faith, credit and taxing power of the issuer do not
secure revenue bonds. Instead, the principal security for a revenue bond is
generally the net revenue derived from a particular facility, group of
facilities, or, in some cases, the proceeds of a special excise tax or other
specific revenue source. Revenue bonds are issued to finance a wide variety
of capital projects, including: electric, gas, water and sewer systems;
highways, bridges and tunnels; port and airport facilities; colleges and
universities; and hospitals. The principal security behind these bonds may
vary. For example, housing finance authorities have a wide range of security,
including partially or fully insured mortgages, rent subsidized and/or
collateralized mortgages, and/or the net revenues from housing or other
public projects. Many bonds provide additional security in the form of a debt
service reserve fund that may be used to make principal and interest
payments. Some authorities have further security in the form of state
assurances (although without obligation) to make up deficiencies in the debt
service reserve fund.
TAX-EXEMPT INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT REVENUE BONDS are issued by or on behalf of
public authorities to finance various privately operated facilities for
business, manufacturing, housing, sports and pollution control, as well as
public facilities such as airports, mass transit systems, ports and parking.
The payment of principal and interest is solely dependent on the ability of
the facility's user to meet its financial obligations and the pledge, if any,
of the facility or other property as security for payment.
VARIABLE OR FLOATING RATE SECURITIES Each fund may invest in variable or
floating rate securities, including variable rate demand notes, which have
interest rates that change either at specific intervals (variable rate), from
daily up to monthly, or whenever a benchmark rate changes (floating rate).
The interest rate adjustments are designed to help stabilize the security's
price. Variable or floating rate securities may include a demand feature,
which may be unconditional. The demand feature allows the holder to demand
prepayment of the principal amount before maturity, generally on no more than
30 days' notice. The holder receives the principal amount plus any accrued
interest either from the issuer or by drawing on a bank letter of credit, a
guarantee or insurance issued with respect to the security.
MUNICIPAL LEASE OBLIGATIONS Each fund may invest in municipal lease
obligations, including certificates of participation. Municipal lease
obligations generally finance the purchase of public property. The property
is leased to the state or a local government, and the lease payments are used
to pay the interest on the obligations. Municipal lease obligations differ
from other municipal securities because the lessee's governing body must
appropriate (set aside) the money to make the lease payments each year. If
the money is not appropriated, the issuer or the lessee can end the lease
without penalty. If the lease is cancelled, investors who own the municipal
lease obligations may not be paid.
The board of trustees reviews the fund's municipal lease obligations to try
to assure that they are liquid investments based on various factors reviewed
by the fund's manager and monitored by the board. These factors may include
(a) the credit quality of the obligations and the extent to which they are
rated or, if unrated, comply with existing criteria and procedures followed
to ensure that they are comparable in quality to the ratings required for the
fund to invest, including an assessment of the likelihood of the lease being
canceled, taking into account how essential the leased property is and the
term of the lease compared to the useful life of the leased property; (b) the
size of the municipal securities market, both in general and with respect to
municipal lease obligations; and (c) the extent to which the type of
municipal lease obligations held by the fund trade on the same basis and with
the same degree of dealer participation as other municipal securities of
comparable credit rating or quality.
Since annual appropriations are required to make lease payments, municipal
lease obligations generally are not subject to constitutional limitations on
the issuance of debt and may allow an issuer to increase government
liabilities beyond constitutional debt limits. When faced with increasingly
tight budgets, local governments have more discretion to curtail lease
payments under a municipal lease obligation than they do to curtail payments
on other municipal securities. If not enough money is appropriated to make
the lease payments, the leased property may be repossessed as security for
holders of the municipal lease obligations. If this happens, there is no
assurance that the property's private sector or re-leasing value will be
enough to make all outstanding payments on the municipal lease obligations or
that the payments will continue to be tax-free.
While cancellation risk is inherent to municipal lease obligations, each fund
believes that this risk may be reduced, although not eliminated, by its
policies on the quality of securities in which it may invest.
CALLABLE BONDS Each fund may invest in callable bonds, which allow the issuer
to repay some or all of the bonds ahead of schedule. If a bond is called, the
fund will receive the principal amount, the accrued interest, and may receive
a small additional payment as a call premium. The manager may sell a callable
bond before its call date, if it believes the bond is at its maximum premium
potential. When pricing callable bonds, the call feature is factored into the
price of the bonds and may impact the fund's net asset value.
An issuer is more likely to call its bonds when interest rates are falling,
because the issuer can issue new bonds with lower interest payments. If a
bond is called, the fund may have to replace it with a lower-yielding
security. A call of some or all of these securities may lower a fund's income
and its distributions to shareholders. If the fund originally paid a premium
for the bond because it had appreciated in value from its original issue
price, the fund also may not be able to recover the full amount it paid for
the bond. One way for the fund to protect itself from call risk is to buy
bonds with call protection. Call protection is an assurance that the bond
will not be called for a specific time period, typically five to 10 years
from when the bond is issued.
ESCROW-SECURED OR DEFEASED BONDS are created when an issuer refunds, before
maturity, an outstanding bond issue that is not immediately callable (or
pre-refunds), and sets aside funds for redemption of the bonds at a future
date. The issuer uses the proceeds from a new bond issue to buy high grade,
interest bearing debt securities, generally direct obligations of the U.S.
government. These securities are then deposited in an irrevocable escrow
account held by a trustee bank to secure all future payments of principal and
interest on the pre-refunded bond. Escrow-secured bonds often receive a
triple A or equivalent rating.
STRIPPED MUNICIPAL SECURITIES Municipal securities may be sold in "stripped"
form. Stripped municipal securities represent separate ownership of principal
and interest payments on municipal securities.
ZERO-COUPON SECURITIES Each fund may invest in zero-coupon and delayed
interest securities. Zero-coupon securities make no periodic interest
payments, but are sold at a deep discount from their face value. The buyer
recognizes a rate of return determined by the gradual appreciation of the
security, which is redeemed at face value on a specified maturity date. The
discount varies depending on the time remaining until maturity, as well as
market interest rates, liquidity of the security, and the issuer's perceived
credit quality. The discount, in the absence of financial difficulties of the
issuer, typically decreases as the final maturity date approaches. If the
issuer defaults, the fund may not receive any return on its investment.
Because zero-coupon securities bear no interest and compound semiannually at
the rate fixed at the time of issuance, their value is generally more
volatile than the value of other fixed-income securities. Since zero-coupon
bondholders do not receive interest payments, zero-coupon securities fall
more dramatically than bonds paying interest on a current basis when interest
rates rise. When interest rates fall, zero-coupon securities rise more
rapidly in value, because the bonds reflect a fixed rate of return.
An investment in zero-coupon and delayed interest securities may cause a fund
to recognize income and make distributions to shareholders before it receives
any cash payments on its investment. To generate cash to satisfy distribution
requirements, a fund may have to sell portfolio securities that it otherwise
would have continued to hold or to use cash flows from other sources such as
the sale of fund shares.
CONVERTIBLE AND STEP COUPON BONDS Each fund may invest a portion of its
assets in convertible and step coupon bonds. Convertible bonds are
zero-coupon securities until a predetermined date, at which time they convert
to a specified coupon security. The coupon on step coupon bonds changes
periodically during the life of the security based on predetermined dates
chosen when the security is issued.
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS are issued by the U.S. Treasury or by agencies
and instrumentalities of the U.S. government and are backed by the full faith
and credit of the U.S. government. They include Treasury bills, notes and
bonds.
COMMERCIAL PAPER is a promissory note issued by a corporation to finance its
short-term credit needs. Each fund may invest in taxable commercial paper
only for temporary defensive purposes.
WHEN-ISSUED TRANSACTIONS Municipal securities are frequently offered on a
"when-issued" basis. When so offered, the price, which is generally expressed
in yield terms, is fixed at the time the commitment to buy is made, but
delivery and payment take place at a later date. During the time between
purchase and settlement, no payment is made by the fund to the issuer and no
interest accrues to the fund. If the other party to the transaction fails to
deliver or pay for the security, the fund could miss a favorable price or
yield opportunity, or could experience a loss.
When the fund makes the commitment to buy a municipal security on a
when-issued basis, it records the transaction and reflects the value of the
security in the determination of its net asset value. The funds believe their
net asset value or income will not be negatively affected by their purchase
of municipal securities on a when-issued basis. The funds will not engage in
when-issued transactions for investment leverage purposes.
Although a fund will generally buy municipal securities on a when-issued
basis with the intention of acquiring the securities, it may sell the
securities before the settlement date if it is considered advisable. When a
fund is the buyer, it will maintain cash or liquid securities, with an
aggregate value equal to the amount of its purchase commitments, in a
segregated account with its custodian bank until payment is made. If assets
of a fund are held in cash pending the settlement of a purchase of
securities, the fund will not earn income on those assets.
ILLIQUID INVESTMENTS Each fund may invest up to 10% of its net assets in
illiquid securities. Illiquid securities are generally securities that cannot
be sold within seven days in the normal course of business at approximately
the amount at which the fund has valued them.
DIVERSIFICATION All of the funds, except the Maryland Fund, are diversified
funds. The Maryland Fund is non-diversified. As a fundamental policy, none of
the diversified funds will buy a security if, with respect to 75% of its net
assets, more than 5% would be in the securities of any single issuer (with
the exception of obligations of the U.S. government). For this purpose, each
political subdivision, agency, or instrumentality, each multi-state agency of
which a state is a member, and each public authority that issues private
activity bonds on behalf of a private entity, is considered a separate
issuer. Escrow-secured or defeased bonds are not generally considered an
obligation of the original municipality when determining diversification.
Each fund, including the Maryland Fund, intends to meet certain
diversification requirements for tax purposes. Generally, to meet federal tax
requirements at the close of each quarter, a fund may not invest more than
25% of its total assets in any one issuer and, with respect to 50% of total
assets, may not invest more than 5% of its total assets in any one issuer.
These limitations do not apply to U.S. government securities and may be
revised if applicable federal income tax requirements are revised.
TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS When the manager believes the securities trading
markets or the economy are experiencing excessive volatility or a prolonged
general decline, or other unusual or adverse conditions exist, it may invest
each fund's portfolio in a temporary defensive manner. Under these
circumstances, each fund may invest all of its assets in securities that pay
taxable interest, including (i) high quality commercial paper; (ii)
securities issued by or guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the U.S.
government; or (iii) municipal securities issued by a state or local
government other than the fund's state. Each fund also may invest all of its
assets in municipal securities issued by a U.S. territory such as Guam,
Puerto Rico or the Mariana Islands.
SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS The frequency of portfolio transactions, usually
referred to as the portfolio turnover rate, varies for each fund from year to
year, depending on market conditions. While short-term trading increases
portfolio turnover and may increase costs, the execution costs for municipal
securities are substantially less than for equivalent dollar values of equity
securities.
CREDIT QUALITY All things being equal, the lower a security's credit quality,
the higher the risk and the higher the yield the security generally must pay
as compensation to investors for the higher risk.
A security's credit quality depends on the issuer's ability to pay interest
on the security and, ultimately, to repay the principal. Independent rating
agencies, such as Fitch Investors Service Inc. (Fitch), Moody's Investors
Service, Inc. (Moody's), and Standard & Poor's Corporation (S&P), often rate
municipal securities based on their opinion of the issuer's credit quality.
Most rating agencies use a descending alphabet scale to rate long-term
securities, and a descending numerical scale to rate short-term securities.
Securities in the top four ratings are "investment grade," although
securities in the fourth highest rating may have some speculative features.
These ratings are described at the end of this SAI under "Description of
Ratings."
An insurance company, bank or other foreign or domestic entity may provide
credit support for a municipal security and enhance its credit quality. For
example, some municipal securities are insured, which means they are covered
by an insurance policy that guarantees the timely payment of principal and
interest. Other municipal securities may be backed by letters of credit,
guarantees, or escrow or trust accounts that contain securities backed by the
full faith and credit of the U.S. government to secure the payment of
principal and interest.
As discussed in the prospectus, each fund has limitations on the credit
quality of securities it may buy. These limitations are generally applied
when a fund makes an investment so that a fund is not required to sell a
security because of a later change in circumstances.
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS Each fund has adopted the following restrictions as
fundamental policies. This means they may only be changed if the change is
approved by (i) more than 50% of the fund's outstanding shares or (ii) 67% or
more of the fund's shares present at a shareholder meeting if more than 50%
of the fund's outstanding shares are represented at the meeting in person or
by proxy, whichever is less.
Each fund may not:
1. Borrow money or mortgage or pledge any of its assets, except that
borrowings (and a pledge of assets therefore) for temporary or emergency
purposes may be made from banks in any amount up to 5% of the total asset
value.
2. Buy any securities on "margin" or sell any securities "short," except that
it may use such short-term credits as are necessary for the clearance of
transactions.
3. Make loans, except through the purchase of readily marketable debt
securities which are either publicly distributed or customarily purchased by
institutional investors. Although such loans are not presently intended, this
prohibition will not preclude the fund from loaning portfolio securities to
broker-dealers or other institutional investors if at least 102% cash
collateral is pledged and maintained by the borrower; provided such portfolio
security loans may not be made if, as a result, the aggregate of such loans
exceeds 10% of the value of the fund's total assets at the time of the most
recent loan.
4. Act as underwriter of securities issued by other persons, except insofar
as the fund may be technically deemed an underwriter under the federal
securities laws in connection with the disposition of portfolio securities.
5. Purchase the securities of any issuer which would result in owning more
than 10% of the voting securities of such issuer, except with respect to the
Maryland Fund, which will not purchase a security, if as a result: i) more
than 25% of its total assets would be invested in the securities of a single
issuer or ii) with respect to 50% of its total assets, more than 5% of its
assets would be invested in the securities of a single issuer.
6. Purchase securities from or sell to the trust's officers and trustees, or
any firm of which any officer or trustee is a member, as principal, or retain
securities of any issuer if, to the knowledge of the trust, one or more of
the trust's officers, trustees, or investment manager own beneficially more
than one-half of 1% of the securities of such issuer and all such officers
and trustees together own beneficially more than 5% of such securities.
7. Acquire, lease or hold real estate, except such as may be necessary or
advisable for the maintenance of its offices and provided that this
limitation shall not prohibit the purchase of municipal and other debt
securities secured by real estate or interests therein.
8. Invest in commodities and commodity contracts, puts, calls, straddles,
spreads or any combination thereof, or interests in oil, gas, or other
mineral exploration or development programs, except that it may purchase,
hold and dispose of "obligations with puts attached" in accordance with its
investment policies.
9. Invest in companies for the purpose of exercising control or management.
10. Purchase securities of other investment companies, except in connection
with a merger, consolidation or reorganization, except to the extent the fund
invests its uninvested daily cash balances in shares of the Franklin
Tax-Exempt Money Fund and other tax-exempt money funds in the Franklin
Templeton Group of Funds provided i) its purchases and redemptions of such
money market fund shares may not be subject to any purchase or redemption
fees, ii) its investments may not be subject to duplication of management
fees, nor to any charge related to the expense of distributing the fund's
shares (as determined under Rule 12b-1, as amended under the federal
securities laws) and iii) aggregate investments by the fund in any such money
market fund do not exceed (A) the greater of (i) 5% of the fund's total net
assets or (ii) $2.5 million, or (B) more than 3% of the outstanding shares of
any such money market fund.
11. Invest more than 25% of its assets in securities of any industry;
although for purposes of this limitation, tax-exempt securities and U.S.
government obligations are not considered to be part of any industry.
If a bankruptcy or other extraordinary event occurs concerning a particular
security the fund owns, the fund may receive stock, real estate, or other
investments that the fund would not, or could not, buy. If this happens, the
fund intends to sell such investments as soon as practicable while maximizing
the return to shareholders.
If a percentage restriction is met at the time of investment, a later
increase or decrease in the percentage due to a change in the value or
liquidity of portfolio securities or the amount of assets will not be
considered a violation of any of the foregoing restrictions.
RISKS
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STATE Since each state fund mainly invests in the municipal securities of its
state, its performance is closely tied to the ability of issuers of municipal
securities in its state to continue to make principal and interest payments
on their securities. The issuers' ability to do this is in turn dependent on
economic, political and other conditions within the state. Below is a
discussion of certain conditions that may affect municipal issuers in the
funds' various states. It is not a complete analysis of every material fact
that may affect the ability of issuers of municipal securities to meet their
debt obligations or the economic or political conditions within any state and
is subject to change. The information below is based on data available to the
funds from historically reliable sources, but the funds have not
independently verified it.
The ability of issuers of municipal securities to continue to make principal
and interest payments is dependent in large part on their ability to raise
revenues, primarily through taxes, and to control spending. Many factors can
affect a state's revenues including the rate of population growth,
unemployment rates, personal income growth, federal aid, and the ability to
attract and keep successful businesses. A number of factors can also affect a
state's spending including current debt levels, and the existence of
accumulated budget deficits. The following provides some information on these
and other factors.
ALABAMA. Alabama's economic base has continued to expand and diversify.
Although manufacturing has remained an important part of the economy, the
trade and service sectors have supplied almost 75% of the state's recent job
growth. The state's economic diversification has been fueled by growth in
high tech industries, health care and business services, and has centered
around the state's major metropolitan areas. Aggressive economic development
and business recruitment policies have helped to increase growth throughout
the state. In recent years, these policies have brought in significant
capital investments, which may help Alabama offset losses in its textile,
apparel and food processing sectors.
Historically, Alabama has been able to maintain a relatively low overall debt
burden, as well as balanced financial operations. Under the state's
constitution, expenditure reductions are required to prevent deficit spending
should the state experience revenue shortfalls. Since fiscal 1993, across the
board cuts have not been needed due mainly to Alabama's recent economic
growth and strict cost containment measures.
Alabama has been under a court order to remedy constitutional violations of
funding equity and adequacy in its school systems. The Alabama Special
Educational Trust Fund has been the state's largest operating fund and has
been funded primarily by income, sales and use taxes. To address some of the
deficiencies, the governor recommended that all new revenue growth in the
educational trust go to K-12 schools and the state issued revenue bonds
totaling $215 million for capital improvements to its schools. Alabama's
state legislature also adopted a plan to remedy these violations and
deficiencies, although as of May 1997 the court had not accepted the plan.
FLORIDA. Employment and population have grown steadily in Florida since 1991,
and Florida's economic expansion has been among the strongest in the region,
as well as the nation. Florida's population growth has placed increased
demands on government services and the state's infrastructure, but so far the
state has been able to meet these challenges.
Florida's economy has continued to diversify, moving from a relatively narrow
base of agriculture and seasonal tourism towards a service and trade economy.
Job growth has been steady, with an unemployment rate of 4.6% in April 1997,
below the national rate of 4.8%. The state's job growth has been dependent on
growth in the services, construction and trade sectors, with the state's
business services sector accounting for approximately 30% of new non-farm
employment since 1991. Much of this growth has come from growth in the
personnel services sector, however, which typically represents low paying
jobs. The state's tourism industry, which has supported the state's other
employment sectors, has been somewhat erratic since the recession in the
early 1990s. A tourism increase of 3.1% is expected, however, through fiscal
1998.
Due in large part to the state's healthy economy, Florida's population has
also continued to grow. It was recently the fourth most populated state in
the U.S. Its per capita income, while close to the national average, exceeded
regional levels by almost 11% as of April 1997. Because of its substantial
retirement age population, however, its income structure is dependent on
property income and transfer payments, such as social security and pension
benefits. As a result, a change to the consumer price index at the federal
level could have a significant impact on the state.
Florida's tax base has been relatively narrow, with 70% of its revenues
derived from the state's sales and use tax. This reliance on a cyclical
revenue source creates some vulnerability, as does the constitutional
amendment approved by voters in 1994 that limits the rate of growth in state
revenues. It should be noted, however, that this amendment exempts revenues
pledged to bonds, so existing and new debt issues should be unaffected.
Although Florida's debt levels have been steadily rising, in recent years the
state has generated operating surpluses, while maintaining tax levels and
providing funds for the state's growth in government services. Overall, the
state's financial outlook is considered stable.
GEORGIA. Georgia has been among the fastest growing states in the U.S. in
population. Its diversified economy has also performed well in recent years,
with growth in the services sector driving the state's overall employment
growth. Other factors that have contributed to Georgia's recent economic
growth have been the state's low cost of living, extensive transportation
infrastructure, low unemployment rates, and strong activity in the
construction sector. Atlanta, which has been at the heart of the state's
economic growth, has also been a trade, service and transportation center for
much of the southeast region.
Financially, the state's strong economic and revenue growth have so far
allowed the state to meet the needs of its growing population, while
maintaining a sound financial position. The state has generated operating
surpluses in each of the last three fiscal years from 1995 to 1997, and has
also fully funded its reserves. While revenues have grown at a rate of more
than 9% since 1991, the state has kept growth in general fund expenditures
below 9%. In addition, recent investments in financial information and
reporting technology should help improve the state's financial reporting and
accuracy. In the near term, key expenses for the state may be in the areas of
education, health and welfare.
KENTUCKY. Kentucky's economy, with its base in agriculture and traditional
manufacturing, has outperformed the nation in both employment and personal
income growth over the past several years. In contrast to the nation, its
relatively high-wage manufacturing sector has grown steadily, recently
accounting for nearly 15% of all jobs. The state has been especially
dependent on the production of transportation equipment.
While the state's reliance on traditional manufacturing has persisted, its
economy has made improvements towards diversification. Kentucky's economy has
been moving towards a more modern manufacturing and service-oriented base,
with less emphasis on its coal, tobacco, and heavy manufacturing industries.
Its low cost structure, high quality of living, and pro-business environment
have attracted businesses to the state over the past several years, with the
majority of economic development occurring in the state's "Golden Triangle"
region.
Despite improvements, there remain major structural weaknesses in Kentucky's
economic base. The state is especially vulnerable to rapid technological
changes, which, given the historically low education levels of its workforce,
could weaken the ability of the state to remain economically competitive.
Since fiscal 1993, Kentucky's financial management has steadily improved. In
1995, the state funded a $100 million budgetary reserve fund, which by the
end of fiscal 1996 had grown to $200 million. Despite a recent court ruling
that will require the state to refund an estimated $240 million to taxpayers,
as of July 1997, the state was expected to maintain its reserve fund at its
1996 level through fiscal 1998 and to maintain its balanced budget.
LOUISIANA. Louisiana's economy has been historically cyclical due to its
reliance on oil and gas production and petro-chemical products. During the
energy sector decline of the 1980s, however, the state made some improvements
towards a more diversified economy. During that time, the leading source of
jobs was the service sector, which in 1997 accounted for 26% of employment.
Nonetheless, much of the state's recent economic growth has come from the
upturn in the oil and gas sector. Gaming, construction and tourism have also
contributed. Future growth should continue to be limited by the state's
dependence on the cyclical oil and gas industry, as well as below average
wealth and income levels and a workforce with a low education level.
Historically, Louisiana's main revenue sources, namely its sales tax,
individual and corporate income tax, and severance and royalty taxes, have
fluctuated with economic cycles. This fluctuation has created budget problems
in the past. During the last several years, however, the state's financial
position has stabilized somewhat. Under a new administration and legislature,
the state adopted budget control measures in 1996. These measures have
improved efficiencies, especially in the state's large health care system,
and resulted in an operating surplus of $161 million for fiscal 1997. A
potential problem for the state's financial position may be its unfunded risk
management claims for judgments against the state, which, as of May 1997,
totaled $1.8 billion.
MARYLAND. Maryland's economic base has been well-diversified. The state's
leading employment and income sectors have been services (32.5%), trade (24%)
and government (19.1%). The state's dependence on government has been larger
than most other states due to Maryland's close proximity to Washington D.C.,
and has made Maryland vulnerable to federal budget cuts. At the same time,
the state's manufacturing sector (7.9%) has been smaller than most other
states, although it has been Maryland's most volatile sector. Recently,
economic growth has come mainly from the service, trade, and the combined
transportation, communication and utilities sectors.
Maryland's financial performance has been historically strong. Contributing
factors have included high per capita income levels, a well-educated
workforce, an advanced infrastructure, diversified employment opportunities,
and strong population growth. In each of the last four fiscal years, the
state has generated operating surpluses while building its financial
reserves. Debt service levels have also remained manageable.
Going forward, potential areas of financial stress may come from the state's
$4.8 billion unfunded pension liability and its recent 10% personal income
tax reduction, which is to be phased in over five years. The state hopes to
fund the tax cut with savings from reductions in the size of government, new
revenues from potential economic growth as a result of the tax cut, and from
budget reserves.
MISSOURI. Missouri has historically enjoyed a diversified economy that has
tended to mirror the national economy. Employment and personal income growth,
however, have been above the national average. Over the past three years,
employment has grown at an average annual rate of 2%, while personal income
has increased by an average annual rate of 5.8% over the past two years. At
the same time, the state's unemployment rate of 3.5% has been below the
national average.
Despite declines in its manufacturing sector, trade and services have grown
steadily and have more than offset the state's manufacturing losses.
Missouri's low cost of living and highly skilled workforce have contributed
to this growth and have made the state attractive to computer- and
telecommunications-related companies. As of March 1998, S&P estimated that
the state's job growth will continue over the next five years, although at a
slower pace due to slow population growth and a tight labor force. These
factors could raise wages and deter future economic growth.
From a financial standpoint, Missouri's reluctance to rely heavily on
borrowing to meet capital needs has resulted in a low debt burden, while
sound financial management has resulted in a steadily improving financial
position. The state's general fund has had a surplus for six consecutive
years, increasing in fiscal 1997 to a balance of $1.71 billion. Because of
constitutional tax limitations, however, the state must refund $695 million
in excess income tax revenues collected in fiscal years 1995, 1996 and 1997
to taxpayers.
Fiscal 1998 results are also expected to be positive. Because of the state's
strong economy, recent estimates indicated general revenue growth of 3.3%.
This is down from 5.7% in 1997 as a result of the elimination of the state's
sales tax on food. For fiscal 1999, increased expenditures for new prison
construction, education and further tax reductions could reduce the state's
future financial flexibility.
NORTH CAROLINA. North Carolina recently ranked tenth in the nation in
population, and its employment and personal income growth has consistently
been above national levels. Manufacturing has dominated the state's economy,
providing 24% of employment and ranking North Carolina eighth in the U.S. in
manufacturing employment. This reliance on manufacturing could increase the
state's vulnerability to future recessions.
Historically, North Carolina's financial operations have been relatively
conservative. Income taxes have been the state's main source of revenue and
education its largest expense. In recent years, the state's financial
performance has been positive with operating surpluses in both fiscal 1996
and 1997. This performance has allowed the state to build reserves and enact
various tax relief measures. A budget deficit has been estimated for the
first year of the 1997-1999 biennium, however, which the state has planned to
fund with its reserves.
Nationally, North Carolina has not been considered a wealthy state.
Regionally, however, it has been among the wealthiest states. Low wages,
affordable housing, and a perceived favorable quality of life should help
provide positive long-term development potential for the state.
TEXAS. The Texas economy has continued to diversify and to move away from its
dependence on the volatile oil and gas sector. The state's high-tech sector
has become increasingly prominent, and, as of June 1997, was second behind
only California in total jobs and advantages in cost of business. The
construction industry has been the state's fastest growing sector in recent
years due in part to a relatively high rate of net migration to the state.
Overall, job growth has been strong. Since 1990, Texas has added more than
$1.4 million new jobs and has accounted for 11% of all new jobs created in
the U.S. Future growth may come from the state's services sector, which
accounted for 27% of employment as of April 1997.
While overall job growth has been strong, losses in the state's higher paying
oil and gas, and aerospace industries have resulted in slower, although still
positive, personal income growth. On a per capita basis, income levels have
remained below the national level.
Financially, the state's performance has improved since the budget deficits
of the mid-1980s when the oil and gas sector declined. Revenues have
continued to increase as the state's economy has grown. For fiscal 1997, the
state relied in part on general fund reserves to finance operations and
expects to do the same for fiscal 1998. This reliance on existing surpluses
to fund expenditures could create budget problems going forward. In the near
future, Texas may encounter spending pressures from its growing population
and from areas such as education and welfare reform.
The state's debt burden has been relatively modest. In recent years, however,
the state's debt position has grown. The state has also moved away from
issuing debt designed to be self-supporting and towards issuing debt
supported by the general revenue fund. Nonetheless, the state's debt has
remained below the national average on a per capita basis.
VIRGINIA. Virginia's economy has been in a period of transition. Historically
the state has been dependent on the federal government due to Virginia's
close proximity to Washington D.C. Federal downsizing and budget cuts in
recent years, however, have cost the state jobs. As a result, the state has
been actively encouraging diversification. While federal jobs have continued
to account for a larger percentage of employment (5.2% in 1996) relative to
the national average, growth in the services sector has helped replace some
of the losses of federal jobs. In 1996, services accounted for 29.1% of
non-farm employment, with the fastest growth coming from the business and
health services areas. Trade has been another growing sector, increasing
12.6% from 1992 to 1996 and accounting for 22.8% of employment in 1996.
Virginia's debt levels have been historically low, although they have begun
to increase due to some large highway and university construction projects.
Revenues and expenses have likewise grown. After two years of deficits, the
state's GAAP-based unreserved fund balance closed with $220 million in fiscal
1997.
Since 1995, the state has had to refund approximately $400 million of income
tax collected on federal retiree benefits as a result of a court case.
Two-thirds of this amount has been paid and the remainder is scheduled to be
paid in 1998 and 1999. In coming years, the state will also have to fund
increased expenditures for education, as well as the elimination of its car
tax. When fully phased in during fiscal 2003, the cost to the state of the
car tax elimination is expected to be $2.8 billion.
U.S. TERRITORIES Since each fund may invest a portion of its assets in
municipal securities issued by U.S. territories, the ability of municipal
issuers in U.S. territories to continue to make principal and interest
payments also may affect a fund's performance. As with state municipal
issuers, the ability to make these payments is dependent on economic,
political and other conditions. Below is a discussion of certain conditions
within some of the territories where the funds may be invested. It is not a
complete analysis of every material fact that may affect the ability of
issuers of U.S. territory municipal securities to meet their debt obligations
or the economic or political conditions within the territories and is subject
to change. It is based on data available to the funds from historically
reliable sources, but it has not been independently verified by the funds.
GUAM. Guam's economy has been heavily dependent on its tourism industry,
which accounted for almost 40% of total employment in 1997. It has been
especially dependent on Japanese tourism, which has made Guam vulnerable to
fluctuations in the relationship between the U.S. dollar and the Japanese yen.
In the early to mid-1990s, Guam's financial position deteriorated due to a
series of natural disasters that led to increased spending on top of already
significant budget gaps. As a result, the government introduced a
comprehensive financial plan in June 1995 to help balance the budget and
reduce the general fund deficit by fiscal 1999. As of fiscal 1997, the
deficit had improved and the budget was balanced.
While Guam's debt burden has been manageable, Guam's ability to maintain
current debt levels may be challenged in the near future. U.S. military
downsizing has reduced the federal presence on the island and also may reduce
federal support for infrastructure projects. At the same time, Guam has faced
increasing pressure to improve its infrastructure to help generate economic
development.
Overall, as of October 1997, S&P's outlook for Guam was negative due to
Guam's continued weak financial position and the need for continued political
support towards the goals of the financial plan.
MARIANA ISLANDS. The Mariana Islands became a commonwealth in 1975. At that
time, the U.S. government agreed to exempt the islands from federal minimum
wage and immigration laws in an effort to help stimulate industry and the
economy. The islands' minimum wage has been more than $2 per hour below the
U.S. level and tens of thousands of workers have immigrated from various
Asian countries to provide cheap labor for the islands' industries. Recently,
the islands' tourism and apparel industries combined to help increase gross
business receipts from $224 million in 1985 to $2 billion in 1996.
PUERTO RICO. Overall, Moody's considered Puerto Rico's outlook stable as of
January 1999. In recent years, Puerto Rico's financial performance has
improved. Relatively strong revenue growth and more aggressive tax collection
procedures resulted in a general fund surplus for fiscal 1998 (unaudited).
For fiscal 1999, spending increases of 11% are budgeted, which may create an
operating deficit and deplete the commonwealth's unreserved fund balance.
Puerto Rico's debt levels have been high. Going forward, these levels may
increase as Puerto Rico attempts to finance significant capital and
infrastructure improvements. Puerto Rico will also need to address its large
unfunded pension liability of more than $6 billion.
Despite Puerto Rico's stable outlook, Puerto Rico may face challenges in the
coming years with the 1996 passage of a bill eliminating section 936 of the
Internal Revenue Code. This section has given certain U.S. corporations
operating in Puerto Rico significant tax advantages. These incentives have
helped considerably with Puerto Rico's economic growth, especially with the
development of its manufacturing sector. U.S. firms that have benefited from
these incentives have provided a significant portion of Puerto Rico's
revenues, employment and deposits in local financial institutions. The
section 936 incentives will be phased out over a 10-year period ending in
2006. It is hoped that this long phase-out period will give Puerto Rico
sufficient time to lessen the potentially negative effects of section 936's
elimination. Outstanding issues relating to the potential for a transition to
statehood also may have broad implications for Puerto Rico and its financial
and credit position.
OFFICERS AND TRUSTEES
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The trust has a board of trustees. The board is responsible for the overall
management of the trust, including general supervision and review of each
fund's investment activities. The board, in turn, elects the officers of the
trust who are responsible for administering the trust's day-to-day
operations. The board also monitors each fund to ensure no material conflicts
exist among share classes. While none is expected, the board will act
appropriately to resolve any material conflict that may arise.
The name, age and address of the officers and board members, as well as their
affiliations, positions held with the trust, and principal occupations during
the past five years are shown below.
Frank H. Abbott, III (78)
1045 Sansome Street, San Francisco, CA 94111
TRUSTEE
President and Director, Abbott Corporation (an investment company); director
or trustee, as the case may be, of 27 of the investment companies in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY, Director, MotherLode Gold
Mines Consolidated (gold mining) and Vacu-Dry Co. (food processing).
Harris J. Ashton (67)
191 Clapboard Ridge Road, Greenwich, CT 06830
TRUSTEE
Director, RBC Holdings, Inc. (bank holding company) and Bar-S Foods (meat
packing company); director or trustee, as the case may be, of 48 of the
investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY,
President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, General Host
Corporation (nursery and craft centers).
S. Joseph Fortunato (66)
Park Avenue at Morris County, P.O. Box 1945
Morristown, NJ 07962-1945
TRUSTEE
Member of the law firm of Pitney, Hardin, Kipp & Szuch; director or trustee,
as the case may be, of 50 of the investment companies in the Franklin
Templeton Group of Funds.
Edith E. Holiday (47)
3239 38th Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20016
TRUSTEE
Director, Amerada Hess Corporation (exploration and refining of natural gas)
(1993-present), Hercules Incorporated (chemicals, fibers and resins)
(1993-present), Beverly Enterprises, Inc. (health care) (1995-present) and
H.J. Heinz Company (processed foods and allied products) (1994-present);
director or trustee, as the case may be, of 24 of the investment companies in
the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY, Chairman (1995-1997) and
Trustee (1993-1997), National Child Research Center, Assistant to the
President of the United States and Secretary of the Cabinet (1990-1993),
General Counsel to the United States Treasury Department (1989-1990), and
Counselor to the Secretary and Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs and
Public Liaison-United States Treasury Department (1988-1989).
*Charles B. Johnson (66)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND TRUSTEE
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc.;
Chairman of the Board and Director, Franklin Advisers, Inc., Franklin
Investment Advisory Services, Inc. and Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc.;
Director, Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc. and Franklin Templeton
Services, Inc.; officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of
most of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 49 of the
investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
*Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. (58)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
PRESIDENT AND TRUSTEE
Executive Vice President and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc. and Franklin
Templeton Distributors, Inc.; President and Director, Franklin Advisers, Inc.
and Franklin Investment Advisory Services, Inc.; Senior Vice President,
Franklin Advisory Services, LLC; Director, Franklin/Templeton Investor
Services, Inc.; and officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be,
of most of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 52 of
the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Frank W.T. LaHaye (70)
20833 Stevens Creek Blvd., Suite 102, Cupertino, CA 95014
TRUSTEE
General Partner, Miller & LaHaye, which is the General Partner of Peregrine
Ventures II (venture capital firm); director or trustee, as the case may be,
of 27 of the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds;
and FORMERLY, Director, Fischer Imaging Corporation (medical imaging
systems), Digital Transmission Systems, Inc. (wireless communications) and
Quarterdeck Corporation (software firm), and General Partner, Peregrine
Associates, which was the General Partner of Peregrine Ventures (venture
capital firm).
Gordon S. Macklin (71)
8212 Burning Tree Road, Bethesda, MD 20817
TRUSTEE
Director, Fund American Enterprises Holdings, Inc. (holding company), Martek
Biosciences Corporation, MCI WorldCom (information services), MedImmune, Inc.
(biotechnology), Spacehab, Inc. (aerospace services) and Real 3D (software);
director or trustee, as the case may be, of 48 of the investment companies in
the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY, Chairman, White River
Corporation (financial services) and Hambrecht and Quist Group (investment
banking), and President, National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
Harmon E. Burns (54)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT
Executive Vice President and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc., Franklin
Templeton Distributors, Inc. and Franklin Templeton Services, Inc.; Executive
Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Director, Franklin Investment
Advisory Services, Inc. and Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc.; and
officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of most of the other
subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 52 of the investment
companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Martin L. Flanagan (39)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Franklin Resources, Inc.,
Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc. and Franklin Mutual Advisers, LLC;
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Director, Templeton
Worldwide, Inc.; Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and
Director, Templeton Investment Counsel, Inc.; Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Chief Financial Officer,
Franklin Advisory Services, LLC and Franklin Investment Advisory Services,
Inc.; President and Director, Franklin Templeton Services, Inc.; officer
and/or director of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources,
Inc.; and officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of 52 of
the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Deborah R. Gatzek (50)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT AND SECRETARY
Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Franklin Resources, Inc.; Senior
Vice President, Franklin Templeton Services, Inc. and Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc.; Executive Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Vice
President, Franklin Advisory Services, LLC and Franklin Mutual Advisers, LLC;
Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Chief Operating Officer, Franklin
Investment Advisory Services, Inc.; and officer of 53 of the investment
companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Thomas J. Kenny (36)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT
Executive Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; and officer of eight of
the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Diomedes Loo-Tam (60)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
TREASURER AND PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING OFFICER
Senior Vice President, Franklin Templeton Services, Inc.; and officer of 32
of the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Edward V. McVey (61)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT
Senior Vice President and National Sales Manager, Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc.; and officer of 28 of the investment companies in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
*This board member is considered an "interested person" under federal
securities laws.
Note: Charles B. Johnson and Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. are brothers.
The trust pays noninterested board members $1,450 per month plus $1,300 per
meeting attended. Board members who serve on the audit committee of the trust
and other funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds receive a flat fee
of $2,000 per committee meeting attended, a portion of which is allocated to
the trust. Members of a committee are not compensated for any committee
meeting held on the day of a board meeting. Noninterested board members also
may serve as directors or trustees of other funds in the Franklin Templeton
Group of Funds and may receive fees from these funds for their services. The
fees payable to noninterested board members by the trust are subject to
reductions resulting from fee caps limiting the amount of fees payable to
board members who serve on other boards within the Franklin Templeton Group
of Funds. The following table provides the total fees paid to noninterested
board members by the trust and by the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
NUMBER OF BOARDS IN
TOTAL FEES RECEIVED THE FRANKLIN
TOTAL FEES FROM THE FRANKLIN TEMPLETON GROUP OF
RECEIVED TEMPLETON GROUP OF FUNDS ON WHICH EACH
NAME FROM THE TRUST 1 FUNDS 2 SERVES 3
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Frank H. Abbott $25,675 $159,051 27
Harris J. Ashton $26,390 $361,157 48
S. Joseph Fortunato $25,097 $367,835 50
Edith E. Holiday $28,650 $211,400 24
Frank W.T. LaHaye $26,975 $163,753 27
Gordon S. Macklin $26,390 $361,157 48
1. For the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999. During the period from
February 28, 1998, through May 31, 1998, fees at the rate of $1,300 per month
plus $1,300 per board meeting attended were in effect.
2. For the calendar year ended December 31, 1998.
3. We base the number of boards on the number of registered investment
companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. This number does not
include the total number of series or funds within each investment company
for which the board members are responsible. The Franklin Templeton Group of
Funds currently includes 54 registered investment companies, with
approximately 163 U.S. based funds or series.
Noninterested board members are reimbursed for expenses incurred in
connection with attending board meetings, paid pro rata by each fund in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds for which they serve as director or
trustee. No officer or board member received any other compensation,
including pension or retirement benefits, directly or indirectly from the
fund or other funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Certain
officers or board members who are shareholders of Franklin Resources, Inc.
may be deemed to receive indirect remuneration by virtue of their
participation, if any, in the fees paid to its subsidiaries.
Board members historically have followed a policy of having substantial
investments in one or more of the funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of
Funds, as is consistent with their individual financial goals. In February
1998, this policy was formalized through adoption of a requirement that each
board member invest one-third of fees received for serving as a director or
trustee of a Templeton fund in shares of one or more Templeton funds and
one-third of fees received for serving as a director or trustee of a Franklin
fund in shares of one or more Franklin funds until the value of such
investments equals or exceeds five times the annual fees paid such board
member. Investments in the name of family members or entities controlled by a
board member constitute fund holdings of such board member for purposes of
this policy, and a three year phase-in period applies to such investment
requirements for newly elected board members. In implementing such policy, a
board member's fund holdings existing on February 27, 1998, are valued as of
such date with subsequent investments valued at cost.
MANAGEMENT AND OTHER SERVICES
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MANAGER AND SERVICES PROVIDED EACH fund's manager is Franklin Advisers, Inc.
The manager is a wholly owned subsidiary of Franklin Resources, Inc.
(Resources), a publicly owned company engaged in the financial services
industry through its subsidiaries. Charles B. Johnson and Rupert H. Johnson,
Jr. are the principal shareholders of Resources.
The manager provides investment research and portfolio management services,
and selects the securities for each fund to buy, hold or sell. The manager's
extensive research activities include, as appropriate, traveling to meet with
issuers and to review project sites. The manager also selects the brokers who
execute the funds' portfolio transactions. The manager provides periodic
reports to the board, which reviews and supervises the manager's investment
activities. To protect the fund, the manager and its officers, directors and
employees are covered by fidelity insurance.
The manager and its affiliates manage numerous other investment companies and
accounts. The manager may give advice and take action with respect to any of
the other funds it manages, or for its own account, that may differ from
action taken by the manager on behalf of the funds. Similarly, with respect
to each fund, the manager is not obligated to recommend, buy or sell, or to
refrain from recommending, buying or selling any security that the manager
and access persons, as defined by applicable federal securities laws, may buy
or sell for its or their own account or for the accounts of any other fund.
The manager is not obligated to refrain from investing in securities held by
the fund or other funds it manages. Of course, any transactions for the
accounts of the manager and other access persons will be made in compliance
with the funds' code of ethics.
Under the funds' code of ethics, employees of the Franklin Templeton Group
who are access persons may engage in personal securities transactions subject
to the following general restrictions and procedures: (i) the trade must
receive advance clearance from a compliance officer and must be completed by
the close of the business day following the day clearance is granted; (ii)
copies of all brokerage confirmations and statements must be sent to a
compliance officer; (iii) all brokerage accounts must be disclosed on an
annual basis; and (iv) access persons involved in preparing and making
investment decisions must, in addition to (i), (ii) and (iii) above, file
annual reports of their securities holdings each January and inform the
compliance officer (or other designated personnel) if they own a security
that is being considered for a fund or other client transaction or if they
are recommending a security in which they have an ownership interest for
purchase or sale by a fund or other client.
MANAGEMENT FEES The funds each pay the manager a fee equal to a monthly rate
of:
o 5/96 of 1% of the value of net assets up to and including $100 million;
and
o 1/24 of 1% of the value of net assets over $100 million up to and
including $250 million; and
o 9/240 of 1% of the value of net assets in excess of $250 million.
The fee is computed at the close of business on the last business day of each
month according to the terms of the management agreement. Each class of a
fund's shares pays its proportionate share of the fee.
For the last three fiscal years ended February 28, the funds paid the
following management fees:
MANAGEMENT FEES PAID ($)
------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997
- -------------------------------------------------------------
Alabama Fund 1,332,672 1,189,527 1,079,285
Florida Fund 8,253,117 7,419,693 6,567,507
Georgia Fund 990,149 872,451 812,505
Kentucky Fund 143,286 1 81,200 1 66,255 1
Louisiana Fund 908,906 758,170 692,158
Maryland Fund 1,369,242 1,166,952 1,033,178
Missouri Fund 1,860,465 1,574,188 1,416,882
North Carolina Fund 1,834,435 1,566,067 1,410,760
Texas Fund 786,294 770,725 762,188
Virginia Fund 1,958,381 1,689,780 1,519,947
1. Management fees, before any advance waiver, totaled $377,311, $304,904,
and $260,610, respectively. Under an agreement by the manager to limit its
fees, the fund paid the management fees shown.
ADMINISTRATOR AND SERVICES PROVIDED Franklin Templeton Services, Inc. (FT
Services) has an agreement with the manager to provide certain administrative
services and facilities for each fund. FT Services is wholly owned by
Resources and is an affiliate of the funds' manager and principal
underwriter.
The administrative services FT Services provides include preparing and
maintaining books, records, and tax and financial reports, and monitoring
compliance with regulatory requirements.
ADMINISTRATION FEES The manager pays FT Services a monthly fee equal to an
annual rate of:
o 0.15% of the fund's average daily net assets up to $200 million;
o 0.135% of average daily net assets over $200 million up to $700 million;
o 0.10% of average daily net assets over $700 million up to $1.2 billion;
and
o 0.075% of average daily net assets over $1.2 billion.
During the last three fiscal years ended February 28, the manager paid FT
Services the following administration fees:
ADMINISTRATION FEES PAID ($)
------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1
- -------------------------------------------------------------
Alabama Fund 347,826 315,821 121,584
Florida Fund 1,883,152 1,761,352 691,407
Georgia Fund 252,014 223,366 88,065
Kentucky Fund 87,075 72,518 26,745
Louisiana Fund 225,042 188,768 72,596
Maryland Fund 353,775 309,059 116,248
Missouri Fund 490,833 424,624 163,365
North Carolina Fund 486,937 422,191 161,088
Texas Fund 198,222 193,355 79,386
Virginia Fund 526,452 458,682 174,841
1. For the period October 1, 1996 through February 28, 1997.
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AND TRANSFER AGENT Franklin/Templeton Investor
Services, Inc. (Investor Services) is each fund's shareholder servicing agent
and acts as the fund's transfer agent and dividend-paying agent. Investor
Services is located at 777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404. Please
send all correspondence to Investor Services to P.O. Box 997151, Sacramento,
CA 95899-9983.
For its services, Investor Services receives a fixed fee per account. Each
fund also will reimburse Investor Services for certain out-of-pocket
expenses, which may include payments by Investor Services to entities,
including affiliated entities, that provide sub-shareholder services,
recordkeeping and/or transfer agency services to beneficial owners of the
fund. The amount of reimbursements for these services per benefit plan
participant fund account per year will not exceed the per account fee payable
by the fund to Investor Services in connection with maintaining shareholder
accounts.
CUSTODIAN Bank of New York, Mutual Funds Division, 90 Washington Street, New
York, NY 10286, acts as custodian of each fund's securities and other assets.
AUDITOR PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 333 Market Street, San Francisco, CA
94105, is the funds' independent auditor. The auditor gives an opinion on the
financial statements included in the trust's Annual Report to Shareholders
and reviews the trust's registration statement filed with the U.S. Securities
and Exchange Commission (SEC).
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since most purchases by the funds are principal transactions at net prices,
the funds incurs little or no brokerage costs. Each fund deals directly with
the selling or buying principal or market maker without incurring charges for
the services of a broker on its behalf, unless it is determined that a better
price or execution may be obtained by using the services of a broker.
Purchases of portfolio securities from underwriters will include a commission
or concession paid by the issuer to the underwriter, and purchases from
dealers will include a spread between the bid and ask prices. As a general
rule, the funds do not buy securities in underwritings where it is given no
choice, or only limited choice, in the designation of dealers to receive the
commission. The funds seek to obtain prompt execution of orders at the most
favorable net price. Transactions may be directed to dealers in return for
research and statistical information, as well as for special services
provided by the dealers in the execution of orders.
It is not possible to place a dollar value on the special executions or on
the research services the manager receives from dealers effecting
transactions in portfolio securities. The allocation of transactions in order
to obtain additional research services allows the manager to supplement its
own research and analysis activities and to receive the views and information
of individuals and research staffs of other securities firms. As long as it
is lawful and appropriate to do so, the manager and its affiliates may use
this research and data in their investment advisory capacities with other
clients. If the funds' officers are satisfied that the best execution is
obtained, the sale of fund shares, as well as shares of other funds in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds, also may be considered a factor in the
selection of broker-dealers to execute the funds' portfolio transactions.
If purchases or sales of securities of the funds and one or more other
investment companies or clients supervised by the manager are considered at
or about the same time, transactions in these securities will be allocated
among the several investment companies and clients in a manner deemed
equitable to all by the manager, taking into account the respective sizes of
the funds and the amount of securities to be purchased or sold. In some cases
this procedure could have a detrimental effect on the price or volume of the
security so far as the fund is concerned. In other cases it is possible that
the ability to participate in volume transactions may improve execution and
reduce transaction costs to the funds.
During the last three fiscal years ended February 28, the funds paid no
brokerage commissions.
As of February 28, 1999, the funds did not own securities of their regular
broker-dealers.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The funds calculate dividends and capital gains the same way for each class.
The amount of any income dividends per share will differ, however, generally
due to the difference in the distribution and service (Rule 12b-1) fees of
each class. The funds does not pay "interest" or guarantee any fixed rate of
return on an investment in its shares.
DISTRIBUTIONS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME The fund receives income generally in
the form of interest on its investments. This income, less expenses incurred
in the operation of the fund, constitutes the fund's net investment income
from which dividends may be paid to you.
By meeting certain requirements of the Internal Revenue Code, the funds have
qualified and continue to qualify to pay exempt-interest dividends to you.
These dividends are derived from interest income exempt from regular federal
income tax, and are not subject to regular federal income tax when they are
distributed to you. In addition, to the extent that exempt-interest
dividends are derived from interest on obligations of a state or its
political subdivisions, or from interest on qualifying U.S. territorial
obligations (including qualifying obligations of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin
Islands or Guam), they also will be exempt from that state's personal income
taxes. Most states generally do not grant tax-free treatment to interest on
state and municipal securities of other states.
The funds may earn taxable income on any temporary investments, on the
discount from stripped obligations or their coupons, on income from
securities loans or other taxable transactions, or on ordinary income derived
from the sale of market discount bonds. Any fund distributions from such
income will be taxable to you as ordinary income, whether you receive them in
cash or in additional shares.
DISTRIBUTIONS OF CAPITAL GAINS The funds may derive capital gains and losses
in connection with sales or other dispositions of their portfolio
securities. Distributions from net short-term capital gains will be taxable
to you as ordinary income. Distributions from net long-term capital gains
will be taxable to you as long-term capital gain, regardless of how long you
have held your shares in a fund. Any net capital gains realized by a fund
generally will be distributed once each year, and may be distributed more
frequently, if necessary, in order to reduce or eliminate excise or income
taxes on the fund.
INFORMATION ON THE TAX CHARACTER OF DISTRIBUTIONS The funds will inform you
of the amount of your ordinary income dividends and capital gains
distributions at the time they are paid, and will advise you of their tax
status for federal income tax purposes shortly after the close of each
calendar year, including the portion of the distributions that on average
comprise taxable income or interest income that is a tax preference item
under the alternative minimum tax. If you have not held fund shares for a
full year, a fund may designate and distribute to you, as taxable, tax-exempt
or tax preference income, a percentage of income that is not equal to the
actual amount of such income earned during the period of your investment in
the fund.
ELECTION TO BE TAXED AS A REGULATED INVESTMENT COMPANY Each fund has elected
to be treated as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the
Internal Revenue Code, has qualified as such for its most recent fiscal year,
and intends to so qualify during the current fiscal year. As regulated
investment companies, the funds generally pay no federal income tax on the
income and gains they distribute to you. The board reserves the right not to
maintain the qualification of a fund as a regulated investment company if it
determines such course of action to be beneficial to shareholders. In such
case, a fund will be subject to federal, and possibly state, corporate taxes
on its taxable income and gains, and distributions to you will be taxed as
ordinary dividend income to the extent of such fund's earnings and profits.
EXCISE TAX DISTRIBUTION REQUIREMENTS To avoid federal excise taxes, the
Internal Revenue Code requires each fund to distribute to you by December 31
of each year, at a minimum, the following amounts: 98% of its taxable
ordinary income earned during the calendar year; 98% of its capital gain net
income earned during the twelve month period ending October 31; and 100% of
any undistributed amounts from the prior year. Each fund intends to declare
and pay these amounts in December (or in January that are treated by you as
received in December) to avoid these excise taxes, but can give no assurances
that its distributions will be sufficient to eliminate all taxes.
REDEMPTION OF FUND SHARES Redemptions and exchanges of fund shares are
taxable transactions for federal and state income tax purposes. If you
redeem your fund shares, or exchange your fund shares for shares of a
different Franklin Templeton Fund, the IRS will require that you report a
gain or loss on your redemption or exchange. If you hold your shares as a
capital asset, the gain or loss that you realize will be capital gain or loss
and will be long-term or short-term, generally depending on how long you hold
your shares. Any loss incurred on the redemption or exchange of shares held
for six months or less will be disallowed to the extent of any
exempt-interest dividends distributed to you with respect to your fund shares
and any remaining loss will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the
extent of any long-term capital gains distributed to you by the fund on those
shares.
All or a portion of any loss that you realize upon the redemption of your
fund shares will be disallowed to the extent that you buy other shares in the
fund (through reinvestment of dividends or otherwise) within 30 days before
or after your share redemption. Any loss disallowed under these rules will
be added to your tax basis in the new shares you buy.
DEFERRAL OF BASIS If you redeem some or all of your shares in a fund, and
then reinvest the sales proceeds in such fund or in another Franklin
Templeton Fund within 90 days of buying the original shares, the sales charge
that would otherwise apply to your reinvestment may be reduced or eliminated.
The IRS will require you to report gain or loss on the redemption of your
original shares in a fund. In doing so, all or a portion of the sales charge
that you paid for your original shares in a fund will be excluded from your
tax basis in the shares sold (for the purpose of determining gain or loss
upon the sale of such shares). The portion of the sales charge excluded will
equal the amount that the sales charge is reduced on your reinvestment. Any
portion of the sales charge excluded from your tax basis in the shares sold
will be added to the tax basis of the shares you acquire from your
reinvestment.
DIVIDENDS-RECEIVED DEDUCTION FOR CORPORATIONS Because each fund's income
consists of interest rather than dividends, no portion of its distributions
generally will be eligible for the corporate dividends-received deduction.
None of the dividends paid by the funds for the most recent fiscal year
qualified for such deduction, and it is anticipated that none of the current
year's dividends will so qualify.
INVESTMENT IN COMPLEX SECURITIES Each fund may invest in complex
securities. These investments may be subject to numerous special and complex
tax rules. These rules could affect whether gains and losses recognized by a
fund are treated as ordinary income or capital gain, accelerate the
recognition of income to a fund and/or defer a fund's ability to recognize
losses. In turn, these rules may affect the amount, timing or character of
the income distributed to you by a fund.
TREATMENT OF PRIVATE ACTIVITY BOND INTEREST Interest on certain private
activity bonds, while still exempt from regular federal income tax, is a
preference item for taxpayers in determining their alternative minimum tax
under the Internal Revenue Code and under the income tax provisions of
several states. Private activity bond interest could subject you to or
increase your liability under federal and state alternative minimum taxes,
depending on your individual or corporate tax position. Persons who are
defined in the Internal Revenue Code as substantial users (or persons related
to such users) of facilities financed by private activity bonds should
consult with their tax advisors before buying fund shares.
ORGANIZATION, VOTING RIGHTS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Each fund is a series of Franklin Tax-Free Trust, an open-end management
investment company, commonly called a mutual fund. The trust was organized as
a Massachusetts business trust in September 1984, and is registered with the
SEC.
As a shareholder of a Massachusetts business trust, you could, under certain
circumstances, be held personally liable as a partner for its obligations.
The Agreement and Declaration of Trust, however, contains an express
disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the fund. The
Declaration of Trust also provides for indemnification and reimbursement of
expenses out of the fund's assets if you are held personally liable for
obligations of the fund. The Declaration of Trust provides that the fund
shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against you for any
act or obligation of the fund and satisfy any judgment thereon. All such
rights are limited to the assets of the fund. The Declaration of Trust
further provides that the fund may maintain appropriate insurance (for
example, fidelity bonding and errors and omissions insurance) for the
protection of the fund, its shareholders, trustees, officers, employees and
agents to cover possible tort and other liabilities. Furthermore, the
activities of the fund as an investment company, as distinguished from an
operating company, would not likely give rise to liabilities in excess of the
fund's total assets. Thus, the risk that you would incur financial loss on
account of shareholder liability is limited to the unlikely circumstance in
which both inadequate insurance exists and the fund itself is unable to meet
its obligations.
Except for the Kentucky Fund, each fund currently offers two classes of
shares, Class A and Class C. Before January 1, 1999, Class A shares were
designated Class I and Class C shares were designated Class II. The full
title of each class is:
o Franklin Alabama Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Alabama Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Florida Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Florida Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Georgia Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Georgia Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Louisiana Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Louisiana Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Maryland Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Maryland Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Missouri Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Missouri Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin North Carolina Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin North Carolina Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Texas Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Texas Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Virginia Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Virginia Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
All shares of the Kentucky Fund are considered Class A shares for redemption,
exchange and other purposes. Each fund may offer additional classes of shares
in the future.
Shares of each class represent proportionate interests in each fund's assets.
On matters that affect a fund as a whole, each class has the same voting and
other rights and preferences as any other class. On matters that affect only
one class, only shareholders of that class may vote. Each class votes
separately on matters affecting only that class, or expressly required to be
voted on separately by state or federal law. Shares of each class of a series
have the same voting and other rights and preferences as the other classes
and series of the trust for matters that affect the trust as a whole.
Additional series may be offered in the future.
The trust has noncumulative voting rights. For board member elections, this
gives holders of more than 50% of the shares voting the ability to elect all
of the members of the board. If this happens, holders of the remaining shares
voting will not be able to elect anyone to the board.
The trust does not intend to hold annual shareholder meetings. The trust or a
series of the trust may hold special meetings, however, for matters requiring
shareholder approval. A meeting may be called by the board to consider the
removal of a board member if requested in writing by shareholders holding at
least 10% of the outstanding shares. In certain circumstances, we are
required to help you communicate with other shareholders about the removal of
a board member. A special meeting also may be called by the board in its
discretion.
As of April 12, 1999, the principal shareholders of the funds, beneficial or
of record, were:
NAME AND ADDRESS SHARE CLASS PERCENTAGE (%)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Texas Fund
Family Ltd. Partnership
Alo Family Limited
4512 Teas St.
Bellaire, TX 77401-4223 Class C 6.14%
PaineWebber For the Benefit of
Timothy A. Costello
9502 Bell Mountain Dr.
Austin, TX 78730-2712 Class C 5.98%
From time to time, the number of fund shares held in the "street name"
accounts of various securities dealers for the benefit of their clients or in
centralized securities depositories may exceed 5% of the total shares
outstanding.
As of April 12, 1999, the officers and board members, as a group, owned of
record and beneficially less than 1% of the outstanding shares of each class
of each fund. The board members may own shares in other funds in the Franklin
Templeton Group of Funds.
BUYING AND SELLING SHARES
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fund continuously offers its shares through securities dealers who have
an agreement with Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. (Distributors). A
securities dealer includes any financial institution that, either directly or
through affiliates, has an agreement with Distributors to handle customer
orders and accounts with the fund. This reference is for convenience only and
does not indicate a legal conclusion of capacity. Banks and financial
institutions that sell shares of the fund may be required by state law to
register as securities dealers.
For investors outside the U.S., the offering of fund shares may be limited in
many jurisdictions. An investor who wishes to buy shares of the fund should
determine, or have a broker-dealer determine, the applicable laws and
regulations of the relevant jurisdiction. Investors are responsible for
compliance with tax, currency exchange or other regulations applicable to
redemption and purchase transactions in any jurisdiction to which they may be
subject. Investors should consult appropriate tax and legal advisors to
obtain information on the rules applicable to these transactions.
All checks, drafts, wires and other payment mediums used to buy or sell
shares of the fund must be denominated in U.S. dollars. We may, in our sole
discretion, either (a) reject any order to buy or sell shares denominated in
any other currency or (b) honor the transaction or make adjustments to your
account for the transaction as of a date and with a foreign currency exchange
factor determined by the drawee bank.
When you buy shares, if you submit a check or a draft that is returned unpaid
to the fund we may impose a $10 charge against your account for each returned
item.
INITIAL SALES CHARGES The maximum initial sales charge is 4.25% for Class A
and 1% for Class C.
The initial sales charge for Class A shares may be reduced for certain large
purchases, as described in the prospectus. We offer several ways for you to
combine your purchases in the Franklin Templeton Funds to take advantage of
the lower sales charges for large purchases. The Franklin Templeton Funds
include the U.S. registered mutual funds in the Franklin Group of Funds(R) and
the Templeton Group of Funds except Franklin Valuemark Funds, Templeton
Capital Accumulator Fund, Inc., and Templeton Variable Products Series Fund.
CUMULATIVE QUANTITY DISCOUNT. For purposes of calculating the sales charge on
Class A shares, you may combine the amount of your current purchase with the
cost or current value, whichever is higher, of your existing shares in the
Franklin Templeton Funds. You also may combine the shares of your spouse,
children under the age of 21 or grandchildren under the age of 21. If you are
the sole owner of a company, you also may add any company accounts, including
retirement plan accounts.
LETTER OF INTENT (LOI). You may buy Class A shares at a reduced sales charge
by completing the letter of intent section of your account application. A
letter of intent is a commitment by you to invest a specified dollar amount
during a 13 month period. The amount you agree to invest determines the sales
charge you pay. By completing the letter of intent section of the
application, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
o You authorize Distributors to reserve 5% of your total intended purchase
in Class A shares registered in your name until you fulfill your LOI. Your
periodic statements will include the reserved shares in the total shares
you own, and we will pay or reinvest dividend and capital gain
distributions on the reserved shares according to the distribution option
you have chosen.
o You give Distributors a security interest in the reserved shares and
appoint Distributors as attorney-in-fact.
o Distributors may sell any or all of the reserved shares to cover any
additional sales charge if you do not fulfill the terms of the LOI.
o Although you may exchange your shares, you may not sell reserved shares
until you complete the LOI or pay the higher sales charge.
After you file your LOI with the fund, you may buy Class A shares at the
sales charge applicable to the amount specified in your LOI. Sales charge
reductions based on purchases in more than one Franklin Templeton Fund will
be effective only after notification to Distributors that the investment
qualifies for a discount. Any Class A purchases you made within 90 days
before you filed your LOI also may qualify for a retroactive reduction in the
sales charge. If you file your LOI with the fund before a change in the
fund's sales charge, you may complete the LOI at the lower of the new sales
charge or the sales charge in effect when the LOI was filed.
Your holdings in the Franklin Templeton Funds acquired more than 90 days
before you filed your LOI will be counted towards the completion of the LOI,
but they will not be entitled to a retroactive reduction in the sales charge.
Any redemptions you make during the 13 month period will be subtracted from
the amount of the purchases for purposes of determining whether the terms of
the LOI have been completed.
If the terms of your LOI are met, the reserved shares will be deposited to an
account in your name or delivered to you or as you direct. If the amount of
your total purchases, less redemptions, is more than the amount specified in
your LOI and is an amount that would qualify for a further sales charge
reduction, a retroactive price adjustment will be made by Distributors and
the securities dealer through whom purchases were made. The price adjustment
will be made on purchases made within 90 days before and on those made after
you filed your LOI and will be applied towards the purchase of additional
shares at the offering price applicable to a single purchase or the dollar
amount of the total purchases.
If the amount of your total purchases, less redemptions, is less than the
amount specified in your LOI, the sales charge will be adjusted upward,
depending on the actual amount purchased (less redemptions) during the
period. You will need to send Distributors an amount equal to the difference
in the actual dollar amount of sales charge paid and the amount of sales
charge that would have applied to the total purchases if the total of the
purchases had been made at one time. Upon payment of this amount, the
reserved shares held for your account will be deposited to an account in your
name or delivered to you or as you direct. If within 20 days after written
request the difference in sales charge is not paid, we will redeem an
appropriate number of reserved shares to realize the difference. If you
redeem the total amount in your account before you fulfill your LOI, we will
deduct the additional sales charge due from the sale proceeds and forward the
balance to you.
GROUP PURCHASES. If you are a member of a qualified group, you may buy Class
A shares at a reduced sales charge that applies to the group as a whole. The
sales charge is based on the combined dollar value of the group members'
existing investments, plus the amount of the current purchase.
A qualified group is one that:
o Was formed at least six months ago,
o Has a purpose other than buying fund shares at a discount,
o Has more than 10 members,
o Can arrange for meetings between our representatives and group members,
o Agrees to include Franklin Templeton Fund sales and other materials in
publications and mailings to its members at reduced or no cost to
Distributors,
o Agrees to arrange for payroll deduction or other bulk transmission of
investments to the fund, and
o Meets other uniform criteria that allow Distributors to achieve cost
savings in distributing shares.
WAIVERS FOR INVESTMENTS FROM CERTAIN PAYMENTS. Class A shares may be
purchased without an initial sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge
(CDSC) by investors who reinvest within 365 days:
o Dividend and capital gain distributions from any Franklin Templeton Fund.
The distributions generally must be reinvested in the same share class.
Certain exceptions apply, however, to Class C shareholders who chose to
reinvest their distributions in Class A shares of the fund before November
17, 1997, and to Advisor Class or Class Z shareholders of a Franklin
Templeton Fund who may reinvest their distributions in the fund's Class A
shares. This waiver category also applies to Class [B and] C shares.
o Dividend or capital gain distributions from a real estate investment
trust (REIT) sponsored or advised by Franklin Properties, Inc.
o Annuity payments received under either an annuity option or from death
benefit proceeds, if the annuity contract offers as an investment option
the Franklin Valuemark Funds or the Templeton Variable Products Series
Fund. You should contact your tax advisor for information on any tax
consequences that may apply.
o Redemption proceeds from a repurchase of shares of Franklin Floating Rate
Trust, if the shares were continuously held for at least 12 months.
o If you immediately placed your redemption proceeds in a Franklin Bank CD
or a Franklin Templeton money fund, you may reinvest them as described
above. The proceeds must be reinvested within 365 days from the date the
CD matures, including any rollover, or the date you redeem your money fund
shares.
o Redemption proceeds from the sale of Class A shares of any of the
Templeton Global Strategy Funds if you are a qualified investor.
If you paid a CDSC when you redeemed your Class A shares from a Templeton
Global Strategy Fund, a new CDSC will apply to your purchase of fund
shares and the CDSC holding period will begin again. We will, however,
credit your fund account with additional shares based on the CDSC you
previously paid and the amount of the redemption proceeds that you
reinvest.
If you immediately placed your redemption proceeds in a Franklin Templeton
money fund, you may reinvest them as described above. The proceeds must be
reinvested within 365 days from the date they are redeemed from the money
fund.
WAIVERS FOR CERTAIN INVESTORS. Class A shares also may be purchased without
an initial sales charge or CDSC by various individuals and institutions due
to anticipated economies in sales efforts and expenses, including:
o Trust companies and bank trust departments agreeing to invest in Franklin
Templeton Funds over a 13 month period at least $1 million of assets held
in a fiduciary, agency, advisory, custodial or similar capacity and over
which the trust companies and bank trust departments or other plan
fiduciaries or participants, in the case of certain retirement plans, have
full or shared investment discretion. We will accept orders for these
accounts by mail accompanied by a check or by telephone or other means of
electronic data transfer directly from the bank or trust company, with
payment by federal funds received by the close of business on the next
business day following the order.
o Any state or local government or any instrumentality, department,
authority or agency thereof that has determined the fund is a legally
permissible investment and that can only buy fund shares without paying
sales charges. Please consult your legal and investment advisors to
determine if an investment in the fund is permissible and suitable for you
and the effect, if any, of payments by the fund on arbitrage rebate
calculations.
o Broker-dealers, registered investment advisors or certified financial
planners who have entered into an agreement with Distributors for clients
participating in comprehensive fee programs
o Qualified registered investment advisors who buy through a broker-dealer
or service agent who has entered into an agreement with Distributors
o Registered securities dealers and their affiliates, for their investment
accounts only
o Current employees of securities dealers and their affiliates and their
family members, as allowed by the internal policies of their employer
o Officers, trustees, directors and full-time employees of the Franklin
Templeton Funds or the Franklin Templeton Group, and their family members,
consistent with our then-current policies
o Any investor who is currently a Class Z shareholder of Franklin Mutual
Series Fund Inc. (Mutual Series), or who is a former Mutual Series Class Z
shareholder who had an account in any Mutual Series fund on October 31,
1996, or who sold his or her shares of Mutual Series Class Z within the
past 365 days
o Investment companies exchanging shares or selling assets pursuant to a
merger, acquisition or exchange offer
o Accounts managed by the Franklin Templeton Group
o Certain unit investment trusts and their holders reinvesting
distributions from the trusts
SALES IN TAIWAN. Under agreements with certain banks in Taiwan, Republic of
China, each fund's shares are available to these banks' trust accounts
without a sales charge. The banks may charge service fees to their customers
who participate in the trusts. A portion of these service fees may be paid to
Distributors or one of its affiliates to help defray expenses of maintaining
a service office in Taiwan, including expenses related to local literature
fulfillment and communication facilities.
Each fund's Class A shares may be offered to investors in Taiwan through
securities advisory firms known locally as Securities Investment Consulting
Enterprises. In conformity with local business practices in Taiwan, Class A
shares may be offered with the following schedule of sales charges:
SIZE OF PURCHASE - U.S. DOLLARS SALES CHARGE (%)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Under $30,000 3.0
$30,000 but less than $100,000 2.0
$100,000 but less than $400,000 1.0
$400,000 or more 0
DEALER COMPENSATION Securities dealers may at times receive the entire sales
charge. A securities dealer who receives 90% or more of the sales charge may
be deemed an underwriter under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
Financial institutions or their affiliated brokers may receive an agency
transaction fee in the percentages indicated in the dealer compensation table
in the funds' prospectus.
Distributors may pay the following commissions, out of its own resources, to
securities dealers who initiate and are responsible for purchases of Class A
shares of $1 million or more: 0.75% on sales of $1 million to $2 million,
plus 0.60% on sales over $2 million to $3 million, plus 0.50% on sales over
$3 million to $50 million, plus 0.25% on sales over $50 million to $100
million, plus 0.15% on sales over $100 million.
These breakpoints are reset every 12 months for purposes of additional
purchases.
Distributors and/or its affiliates provide financial support to various
securities dealers that sell shares of the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
This support is based primarily on the amount of sales of fund shares. The
amount of support may be affected by: total sales; net sales; levels of
redemptions; the proportion of a securities dealer's sales and marketing
efforts in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; a securities dealer's
support of, and participation in, Distributors' marketing programs; a
securities dealer's compensation programs for its registered representatives;
and the extent of a securities dealer's marketing programs relating to the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Financial support to securities dealers
may be made by payments from Distributors' resources, from Distributors'
retention of underwriting concessions and, in the case of funds that have
Rule 12b-1 plans, from payments to Distributors under such plans. In
addition, certain securities dealers may receive brokerage commissions
generated by fund portfolio transactions in accordance with the rules of the
National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
Distributors routinely sponsors due diligence meetings for registered
representatives during which they receive updates on various Franklin
Templeton Funds and are afforded the opportunity to speak with portfolio
managers. Invitation to these meetings is not conditioned on selling a
specific number of shares. Those who have shown an interest in the Franklin
Templeton Funds, however, are more likely to be considered. To the extent
permitted by their firm's policies and procedures, registered
representatives' expenses in attending these meetings may be covered by
Distributors.
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE (CDSC) If you invest $1 million or more in
Class A shares, either as a lump sum or through our cumulative quantity
discount or letter of intent programs, a CDSC may apply on any shares you
sell within 12 months of purchase. For Class C shares, a CDSC may apply if
you sell your shares within 18 months of purchase. The CDSC is 1% of the
value of the shares sold or the net asset value at the time of purchase,
whichever is less.
CDSC WAIVERS. The CDSC for any share class generally will be waived for:
o Account fees
o Redemptions of Class A shares by investors who purchased $1 million or
more without an initial sales charge if the securities dealer of record
waived its commission in connection with the purchase
o Redemptions by the fund when an account falls below the minimum required
account size
o Redemptions following the death of the shareholder or beneficial owner
o Redemptions through a systematic withdrawal plan set up before February
1, 1995
o Redemptions through a systematic withdrawal plan set up on or after
February 1, 1995, up to 1% monthly, 3% quarterly, 6% semiannually or 12%
annually of your account's net asset value depending on the frequency of
your plan
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE If you request the exchange of the total value of your
account, accrued but unpaid income dividends and capital gain distributions
will be reinvested in the fund at net asset value on the date of the
exchange, and then the entire share balance will be exchanged into the new
fund. Backup withholding and information reporting may apply.
If a substantial number of shareholders should, within a short period, sell
their fund shares under the exchange privilege, the fund might have to sell
portfolio securities it might otherwise hold and incur the additional costs
related to such transactions. On the other hand, increased use of the
exchange privilege may result in periodic large inflows of money. If this
occurs, it is the funds' general policy to initially invest this money in
short-term, tax-exempt municipal securities, unless it is believed that
attractive investment opportunities consistent with the funds' investment
goals exist immediately. This money will then be withdrawn from the
short-term, tax-exempt municipal securities and invested in portfolio
securities in as orderly a manner as is possible when attractive investment
opportunities arise.
The proceeds from the sale of shares of an investment company are generally
not available until the seventh day following the sale. The funds you are
seeking to exchange into may delay issuing shares pursuant to an exchange
until that seventh day. The sale of fund shares to complete an exchange will
be effected at net asset value at the close of business on the day the
request for exchange is received in proper form.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN Our systematic withdrawal plan allows you to sell
your shares and receive regular payments from your account on a monthly,
quarterly, semiannual or annual basis. The value of your account must be at
least $5,000 and the minimum payment amount for each withdrawal must be at
least $50. There are no service charges for establishing or maintaining a
systematic withdrawal plan. Once your plan is established, any distributions
paid by the fund will be automatically reinvested in your account.
Payments under the plan will be made from the redemption of an equivalent
amount of shares in your account, generally on the 25th day of the month in
which a payment is scheduled. If the 25th falls on a weekend or holiday, we
will process the redemption on the next business day. When you sell your
shares under a systematic withdrawal plan, it is a taxable transaction.
To avoid paying sales charges on money you plan to withdraw within a short
period of time, you may not want to set up a systematic withdrawal plan if
you plan to buy shares on a regular basis. Shares sold under the plan also
may be subject to a CDSC.
Redeeming shares through a systematic withdrawal plan may reduce or exhaust
the shares in your account if payments exceed distributions received from the
fund. This is especially likely to occur if there is a market decline. If a
withdrawal amount exceeds the value of your account, your account will be
closed and the remaining balance in your account will be sent to you. Because
the amount withdrawn under the plan may be more than your actual yield or
income, part of the payment may be a return of your investment.
You may discontinue a systematic withdrawal plan, change the amount and
schedule of withdrawal payments, or suspend one payment by notifying us by
mail or by phone at least seven business days before the end of the month
preceding a scheduled payment. The fund may discontinue a systematic
withdrawal plan by notifying you in writing and will automatically
discontinue a systematic withdrawal plan if all shares in your account are
withdrawn or if the fund receives notification of the shareholder's death or
incapacity.
REDEMPTIONS IN KIND Each fund has committed itself to pay in cash (by check)
all requests for redemption by any shareholder of record, limited in amount,
however, during any 90-day period to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the
value of the fund's net assets at the beginning of the 90-day period. This
commitment is irrevocable without the prior approval of the U.S. Securities
and Exchange Commission (SEC). In the case of redemption requests in excess
of these amounts, the board reserves the right to make payments in whole or
in part in securities or other assets of the fund, in case of an emergency,
or if the payment of such a redemption in cash would be detrimental to the
existing shareholders of the fund. In these circumstances, the securities
distributed would be valued at the price used to compute the fund's net
assets and you may incur brokerage fees in converting the securities to cash.
The fund does not intend to redeem illiquid securities in kind. If this
happens, however, you may not be able to recover your investment in a timely
manner.
SHARE CERTIFICATES We will credit your shares to your fund account. We do
not issue share certificates unless you specifically request them. This
eliminates the costly problem of replacing lost, stolen or destroyed
certificates. If a certificate is lost, stolen or destroyed, you may have to
pay an insurance premium of up to 2% of the value of the certificate to
replace it.
Any outstanding share certificates must be returned to the fund if you want
to sell or exchange those shares or if you would like to start a systematic
withdrawal plan. The certificates should be properly endorsed. You can do
this either by signing the back of the certificate or by completing a share
assignment form. For your protection, you may prefer to complete a share
assignment form and to send the certificate and assignment form in separate
envelopes.
GENERAL INFORMATION If dividend checks are returned to the fund marked
"unable to forward" by the postal service, we will consider this a request by
you to change your dividend option to reinvest all distributions. The
proceeds will be reinvested in additional shares at net asset value until we
receive new instructions.
Distribution or redemption checks sent to you do not earn interest or any
other income during the time the checks remain uncashed. Neither the funds
nor their affiliates will be liable for any loss caused by your failure to
cash such checks. The funds are not responsible for tracking down uncashed
checks, unless a check is returned as undeliverable.
In most cases, if mail is returned as undeliverable we are required to take
certain steps to try to find you free of charge. If these attempts are
unsuccessful, however, we may deduct the costs of any additional efforts to
find you from your account. These costs may include a percentage of the
account when a search company charges a percentage fee in exchange for its
location services.
The wiring of redemption proceeds is a special service that we make available
whenever possible. By offering this service to you, the funds are not bound
to meet any redemption request in less than the seven day period prescribed
by law. Neither the funds nor their agents shall be liable to you or any
other person if, for any reason, a redemption request by wire is not
processed as described in the prospectus.
Franklin Templeton Investor Services, Inc. (Investor Services) may pay
certain financial institutions that maintain omnibus accounts with the fund
on behalf of numerous beneficial owners for recordkeeping operations
performed with respect to such owners. For each beneficial owner in the
omnibus account, the fund may reimburse Investor Services an amount not to
exceed the per account fee that the fund normally pays Investor Services.
These financial institutions also may charge a fee for their services
directly to their clients.
If you buy or sell shares through your securities dealer, we use the net
asset value next calculated after your securities dealer receives your
request, which is promptly transmitted to the fund. If you sell shares
through your securities dealer, it is your dealer's responsibility to
transmit the order to the fund in a timely fashion. Your redemption proceeds
will not earn interest between the time we receive the order from your dealer
and the time we receive any required documents. Any loss to you resulting
from your dealer's failure to transmit your redemption order to the fund in a
timely fashion must be settled between you and your securities dealer.
Certain shareholder servicing agents may be authorized to accept your
transaction request.
For institutional accounts, there may be additional methods of buying or
selling fund shares than those described in this SAI or in the prospectus.
In the event of disputes involving multiple claims of ownership or authority
to control your account, each fund has the right (but has no obligation) to:
(a) freeze the account and require the written agreement of all persons
deemed by the fund to have a potential property interest in the account,
before executing instructions regarding the account; (b) interplead disputed
funds or accounts with a court of competent jurisdiction; or (c) surrender
ownership of all or a portion of the account to the IRS in response to a
notice of levy.
PRICING SHARES
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When you buy shares, you pay the offering price. The offering price is the
net asset value (NAV) per share plus any applicable sales charge, calculated
to two decimal places using standard rounding criteria. When you sell shares,
you receive the NAV minus any applicable CDSC.
The value of a mutual fund is determined by deducting the fund's liabilities
from the total assets of the portfolio. The net asset value per share is
determined by dividing the net asset value of the fund by the number of
shares outstanding.
The funds calculate the NAV per share of each class each business day at the
close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally 1:00 p.m. pacific
time). The funds do not calculate the NAV on days the New York Stock Exchange
(NYSE) is closed for trading, which include New Year's Day, Martin Luther
King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day,
Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
When determining their NAV, each fund values cash and receivables at their
realizable amounts, and records interest as accrued. Each fund values
over-the-counter portfolio securities within the range of the most recent
quoted bid and ask prices. If portfolio securities trade both in the
over-the-counter market and on a stock exchange, each fund values them
according to the broadest and most representative market as determined by the
manager. Municipal securities generally trade in the over-the-counter market
rather than on a securities exchange. In the absence of a sale or reported
bid and ask prices, information with respect to bond and note transactions,
quotations from bond dealers, market transactions in comparable securities,
and various relationships between securities are used to determine the value
of municipal securities.
Generally, trading in U.S. government securities and money market instruments
is substantially completed each day at various times before the close of the
NYSE. The value of these securities used in computing the NAV is determined
as of such times. Occasionally, events affecting the values of these
securities may occur between the times at which they are determined and the
close of the NYSE that will not be reflected in the computation of the NAV.
If events materially affecting the values of these securities occur during
this period, the securities will be valued at their fair value as determined
in good faith by the board.
Other securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued
at the current market price, which may be obtained from a pricing service,
based on a variety of factors including recent trades, institutional size
trading in similar types of securities (considering yield, risk and maturity)
and/or developments related to specific issues. Securities and other assets
for which market prices are not readily available are valued at fair value as
determined following procedures approved by the board. With the approval of
the board, each fund may use a pricing service, bank or securities dealer to
perform any of the above described functions.
THE UNDERWRITER
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. (Distributors) acts as the principal
underwriter in the continuous public offering of each fund's shares.
Distributors is located at 777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404.
Distributors pays the expenses of the distribution of fund shares, including
advertising expenses and the costs of printing sales material and
prospectuses used to offer shares to the public. Each fund pays the expenses
of preparing and printing amendments to its registration statements and
prospectuses (other than those necessitated by the activities of
Distributors) and of sending prospectuses to existing shareholders.
The table below shows the aggregate underwriting commissions Distributors
received in connection with the offering of each fund's shares, the net
underwriting discounts and commissions Distributors retained after allowances
to dealers, and the amounts Distributors received in connection with
redemptions or repurchases of shares for the last three fiscal years ended
February 28:
AMOUNT
RECEIVED IN
TOTAL CONNECTION
COMMISSIONS AMOUNT RETAINED BY WITH
RECEIVED ($) DISTRIBUTORS ($) REDEMPTIONS
AND
REPURCHASES ($)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999
Alabama Fund 1,184,364 76,087 3,487
Florida Fund 5,317,330 337,465 35,807
Georgia Fund 760,914 42,248 11,492
Kentucky Fund 343,647 22,834 --
Louisiana Fund 716,996 46,235 3,048
Maryland Fund 1,309,307 82,392 10,749
Missouri Fund 1,996,212 120,370 5,859
North Carolina Fund 1,781,352 100,011 14,317
Texas Fund 282,886 17,460 1,125
Virginia Fund 1,754,574 110,385 10,724
1998
Alabama Fund 893,841 55,956 3,262
Florida Fund 6,501,473 424,153 7,601
Georgia Fund 705,553 42,875 1,464
Kentucky Fund 354,892 24,682 --
Louisiana Fund 568,856 37,815 1,321
Maryland Fund 1,009,222 62,026 3,096
Missouri Fund 1,652,316 103,117 3,562
North Carolina Fund 1,557,597 95,165 6,473
Texas Fund 310,914 20,220 1,447
Virginia Fund 1,501,600 93,973 3,561
1997
Alabama Fund 714,659 46,026 859
Florida Fund 4,989,349 320,319 13,709
Georgia Fund 589,639 36,558 688
Kentucky Fund 263,208 16,972 --
Louisiana Fund 503,212 30,444 5,331
Maryland Fund 925,907 55,499 2,211
Missouri Fund 1,133,635 71,462 2,759
North Carolina Fund 1,199,579 73,060 1,322
Texas Fund 254,844 16,652 16
Virginia Fund 1,202,582 76,437 1,039
Distributors may be entitled to reimbursement under the Rule 12b-1 plans, as
discussed below. Except as noted, Distributors received no other compensation
from the fund for acting as underwriter.
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES Each fund and class have separate
distribution or "Rule 12b-1" plans. Under each plan, the fund shall pay or
may reimburse Distributors or others for the expenses of activities that are
primarily intended to sell shares of the class. These expenses may include,
among others, distribution or service fees paid to securities dealers or
others who have executed a servicing agreement with the fund, Distributors or
its affiliates; a prorated portion of Distributors' overhead expenses; and
the expenses of printing prospectuses and reports used for sales purposes,
and preparing and distributing sales literature and advertisements.
The distribution and service (12b-1) fees charged to each class are based
only on the fees attributable to that particular class.
THE CLASS A PLANS. Payments by each fund under the Class A plan may not
exceed 0.10% per year of Class A's average daily net assets, payable
quarterly. All distribution expenses over this amount will be borne by those
who have incurred them.
In implementing the Class A plan, the board has determined that the annual
fees payable under the plan will be equal to the sum of: (i) the amount
obtained by multiplying 0.10% by the average daily net assets represented by
the fund's Class A shares that were acquired by investors on or after May 1,
1994, the effective date of the plan (new assets), and (ii) the amount
obtained by multiplying 0.05% by the average daily net assets represented by
the fund's Class A shares that were acquired before May 1, 1994 (old assets).
These fees will be paid to the current securities dealer of record on the
account. In addition, until such time as the maximum payment of 0.10% is
reached on a yearly basis, up to an additional 0.02% will be paid to
Distributors under the plan. When the fund reaches $4 billion in assets, the
amount to be paid to Distributors will be reduced from 0.02% to 0.01%. The
payments made to Distributors will be used by Distributors to defray other
marketing expenses that have been incurred in accordance with the plan, such
as advertising.
The fee is a Class A expense. This means that all Class A shareholders,
regardless of when they purchased their shares, will bear Rule 12b-1 expenses
at the same rate. The initial rate will be at least 0.07% (0.05% plus 0.02%)
of the average daily net assets of Class A and, as Class A shares are sold on
or after May 1, 1994, will increase over time. Thus, as the proportion of
Class A shares purchased on or after May 1, 1994, increases in relation to
outstanding Class A shares, the expenses attributable to payments under the
plan also will increase (but will not exceed 0.10% of average daily net
assets). While this is the currently anticipated calculation for fees payable
under the Class A plan, the plan permits the board to allow the fund to pay a
full 0.10% on all assets at any time. The approval of the board would be
required to change the calculation of the payments to be made under the Class
A plan.
The Class A plan does not permit unreimbursed expenses incurred in a
particular year to be carried over to or reimbursed in later years.
THE CLASS C PLANS. Under the Class C plans, each fund pays Distributors up to
0.50% per year of the class's average daily net assets, payable quarterly, to
pay Distributors or others for providing distribution and related services
and bearing certain expenses. All distribution expenses over this amount will
be borne by those who have incurred them. The fund also may pay a servicing
fee of up to 0.15% per year of the class's average daily net assets, payable
quarterly. This fee may be used to pay securities dealers or others for,
among other things, helping to establish and maintain customer accounts and
records, helping with requests to buy and sell shares, receiving and
answering correspondence, monitoring dividend payments from the fund on
behalf of customers, and similar servicing and account maintenance
activities.
The expenses relating to the Class C plan also are used to pay Distributors
for advancing the commission costs to securities dealers with respect to the
initial sale of Class C shares.
THE CLASS A AND C PLANS. In addition to the payments that Distributors or
others are entitled to under each plan, each plan also provides that to the
extent the fund, the manager or Distributors or other parties on behalf of
the fund, the manager or Distributors make payments that are deemed to be for
the financing of any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of
fund shares within the context of Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act
of 1940, as amended, then such payments shall be deemed to have been made
pursuant to the plan. The terms and provisions of each plan relating to
required reports, term, and approval are consistent with Rule 12b-1.
In no event shall the aggregate asset-based sales charges, which include
payments made under each plan, plus any other payments deemed to be made
pursuant to a plan, exceed the amount permitted to be paid under the rules of
the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
To the extent fees are for distribution or marketing functions, as
distinguished from administrative servicing or agency transactions, certain
banks will not be entitled to participate in the plans as a result of
applicable federal law prohibiting certain banks from engaging in the
distribution of mutual fund shares. These banking institutions, however, are
permitted to receive fees under the plans for administrative servicing or for
agency transactions. If you are a customer of a bank that is prohibited from
providing these services, you would be permitted to remain a shareholder of
the fund, and alternate means for continuing the servicing would be sought.
In this event, changes in the services provided might occur and you might no
longer be able to avail yourself of any automatic investment or other
services then being provided by the bank. It is not expected that you would
suffer any adverse financial consequences as a result of any of these changes.
Each plan has been approved in accordance with the provisions of Rule 12b-1.
The plans are renewable annually by a vote of the board, including a majority
vote of the board members who are not interested persons of the fund and who
have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the plans,
cast in person at a meeting called for that purpose. It is also required that
the selection and nomination of such board members be done by the
noninterested members of the fund's board. The plans and any related
agreement may be terminated at any time, without penalty, by vote of a
majority of the noninterested board members on not more than 60 days' written
notice, by Distributors on not more than 60 days' written notice, by any act
that constitutes an assignment of the management agreement with the manager
or by vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the class. [The Class A
plan also may be terminated by any act that constitutes an assignment of the
underwriting agreement with Distributors.] Distributors or any dealer or
other firm also may terminate their respective distribution or service
agreement at any time upon written notice.
The plans and any related agreements may not be amended to increase
materially the amount to be spent for distribution expenses without approval
by a majority of the outstanding shares of the class, and all material
amendments to the plans or any related agreements shall be approved by a vote
of the noninterested board members, cast in person at a meeting called for
the purpose of voting on any such amendment.
Distributors is required to report in writing to the board at least quarterly
on the amounts and purpose of any payment made under the plans and any
related agreements, as well as to furnish the board with such other
information as may reasonably be requested in order to enable the board to
make an informed determination of whether the plans should be continued.
For the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999, Distributors' eligible
expenditures for advertising, printing, and payments to underwriters and
broker-dealers pursuant to the plans and the amounts each fund paid
Distributors under the plans were:
DISTRIBUTORS' AMOUNT PAID
ELIGIBLE BY THE
EXPENSES ($) FUND ($)
-------------------------------------------------------------
Alabama Fund - Class A 263,806 208,274
Alabama Fund - Class C 117,792 75,909
Florida Fund - Class A 1,923,363 1,556,429
Florida Fund - Class C 647,063 430,592
Georgia Fund - Class A 246,069 150,648
Georgia Fund - Class C 162,210 82,938
Kentucky Fund 124,230 59,051
Louisiana Fund - Class A 193,708 130,917
Louisiana Fund - Class C 94,882 46,261
Maryland Fund - Class A 314,716 223,888
Maryland Fund - Class C 151,286 88,149
Missouri Fund - Class A 427,164 312,809
Missouri Fund - Class C 175,293 93,317
North Carolina Fund - Class A 388,615 303,507
North Carolina Fund - Class C 332,645 183,005
Texas Fund - Class A 177,070 111,102
Texas Fund - Class C 48,823 21,057
Virginia Fund - Class A 409,989 326,787
Virginia Fund - Class C 180,589 109,653
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PERFORMANCE
Performance quotations are subject to SEC rules. These rules require the use
of standardized performance quotations or, alternatively, that every
non-standardized performance quotation furnished by a fund be accompanied by
certain standardized performance information computed as required by the SEC.
Average annual total return and current yield quotations used by a fund are
based on the standardized methods of computing performance mandated by the
SEC. Performance figures reflect Rule 12b-1 fees from the date of the plan's
implementation. An explanation of these and other methods used by the fund to
compute or express performance follows. Regardless of the method used, past
performance does not guarantee future results, and is an indication of the
return to shareholders only for the limited historical period used.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN Average annual total return is determined by
finding the average annual rates of return over the periods indicated below
that would equate an initial hypothetical $1,000 investment to its ending
redeemable value. The calculation assumes the maximum initial sales charge is
deducted from the initial $1,000 purchase, and income dividends and capital
gain distributions are reinvested at net asset value. The quotation assumes
the account was completely redeemed at the end of each period and the
deduction of all applicable charges and fees. If a change is made to the
sales charge structure, historical performance information will be restated
to reflect the maximum initial sales charge currently in effect.
When considering the average annual total return quotations, you should keep
in mind that the maximum initial sales charge reflected in each quotation is
a one time fee charged on all direct purchases, which will have its greatest
impact during the early stages of your investment. This charge will affect
actual performance less the longer you retain your investment in the fund.
The average annual total returns for the indicated periods ended February 28,
1999, were:
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
------------------------------------------------------
INCEPTION SINCE
DATE 1 YEAR (%) 5 YEARS 10 YEARS INCEPTION
(%) (%) (%)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alabama Fund - Class A 09/01/87 -1.17 4.87 7.00 7.28
Alabama Fund - Class C 05/01/95 0.64 -- -- 6.02
Florida Fund - Class A 09/01/87 1.23 5.26 7.32 7.67
Florida Fund - Class C 05/01/95 3.18 -- -- 6.45
Georgia Fund - Class A 09/01/87 0.73 4.91 7.13 7.37
Georgia Fund - Class C 05/01/95 2.69 -- -- 6.05
Kentucky Fund 10/12/91 1.01 5.36 -- 6.93
Louisiana Fund - 09/01/87 0.71 4.96 7.16 7.35
Class A
Louisiana Fund - 05/01/95 2.55 -- -- 6.42
Class C
Maryland Fund - Class 10/03/88 1.13 5.28 7.23 7.07
A
Maryland Fund - Class 05/01/95 3.06 -- -- 6.65
C
Missouri Fund - Class 09/01/87 0.67 5.30 7.43 7.53
A
Missouri Fund - Class 05/01/95 2.58 -- -- 6.62
C
North Carolina Fund - 09/01/87 1.03 5.05 7.10 7.44
Class A
North Carolina Fund - 05/01/95 3.01 -- -- 6.45
Class C
Texas Fund - Class A 09/01/87 0.39 5.18 7.22 7.56
Texas Fund - Class C 05/01/95 2.38 -- -- 6.62
Virginia Fund - Class 09/01/87 0.90 5.07 7.26 7.49
A
Virginia Fund - Class 05/01/95 2.75 -- -- 6.37
C
The following SEC formula was used to calculate these figures:
n
P(1+T) = ERV
where:
P = a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000
T = average annual total return
n = number of years
ERV = ending redeemable value of a hypothetical $1,000
payment made at the beginning of each period at the end
of each period
CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN Like average annual total return, cumulative total
return assumes the maximum initial sales charge is deducted from the initial
$1,000 purchase, and income dividends and capital gain distributions are
reinvested at net asset value. Cumulative total return, however, is based on
the actual return for a specified period rather than on the average return
over the periods indicated above. The cumulative total returns for the
indicated periods ended February 28, 1999, were:
CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN
------------------------------------------------------
INCEPTION SINCE
DATE 1 YEAR (%) 5 YEARS 10 YEARS INCEPTION
(%) (%) (%)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alabama Fund - Class A 09/01/87 -1.17 26.87 96.75 124.27
Alabama Fund - Class C 05/01/95 0.64 -- -- 25.09
Florida Fund - Class A 09/01/87 1.23 29.19 102.72 133.89
Florida Fund - Class C 05/01/95 3.18 -- -- 27.03
Georgia Fund - Class A 09/01/87 0.73 27.08 99.05 126.53
Georgia Fund - Class C 05/01/95 2.69 -- -- 25.22
Kentucky Fund 10/12/91 1.01 29.80 -- 64.03
Louisiana Fund - 09/01/87 0.71 27.41 99.63 125.85
Class A
Louisiana Fund - 05/01/95 2.55 -- -- 26.92
Class C
Maryland Fund - Class 10/03/88 1.13 29.35 100.93 103.59
A
Maryland Fund - Class 05/01/95 3.06 -- -- 27.95
C
Missouri Fund - Class 09/01/87 0.67 29.44 104.68 130.29
A
Missouri Fund - Class 05/01/95 2.58 -- -- 27.84
C
North Carolina Fund - 09/01/87 1.03 27.93 98.56 128.26
Class A
North Carolina Fund - 05/01/95 3.01 -- -- 27.07
Class C
Texas Fund - Class A 09/01/87 0.39 28.72 100.73 131.17
Texas Fund - Class C 05/01/95 2.38 -- -- 27.83
Virginia Fund - Class 09/01/87 0.90 28.06 101.49 129.29
A
Virginia Fund - Class 05/01/95 2.75 -- -- 26.66
C
CURRENT YIELD Current yield shows the income per share earned by a fund. It
is calculated by dividing the net investment income per share earned during a
30-day base period by the applicable maximum offering price per share on the
last day of the period and annualizing the result. Expenses accrued for the
period include any fees charged to all shareholders of the class during the
base period. The yields for the 30-day period ended February 28, 1999, were:
CLASS A (%) CLASS C (%)
-------------------------------------------------
Alabama Fund 4.14 3.72
Florida Fund 3.78 3.35
Georgia Fund 3.85 3.43
Kentucky Fund 3.99 --
Louisiana Fund 4.11 3.69
Maryland Fund 3.86 3.45
Missouri Fund 3.95 3.53
North Carolina Fund 3.83 3.41
Texas Fund 3.94 3.52
Virginia Fund 3.95 3.53
The following SEC formula was used to calculate these figures:
6
Yield = 2 [(a-b + 1) - 1]
---
cd
where:
a = interest earned during the period
b = expenses accrued for the period (net of reimbursements)
c = the average daily number of shares outstanding during the period that
were entitled to receive dividends
d = the maximum offering price per share on the last day of the period
TAXABLE-EQUIVALENT YIELD Each fund also may quote a taxable-equivalent
yield that shows the before-tax yield that would have to be earned from a
taxable investment to equal the yield. Taxable-equivalent yield is
computed by dividing the portion of the yield that is tax-exempt by one
minus the highest applicable combined federal and state income tax rate
and adding the product to the portion of the yield that is not
tax-exempt, if any. The taxable-equivalent yields for the 30-day period
ended February 28, 1999, were:
TAXABLE-EQUIVALENT YIELD
----------------------------
CLASS A (%) CLASS C (%)
-------------------------------------------------
Alabama Fund 7.22 6.48
Florida Fund 6.26 5.55
Georgia Fund 6.78 6.04
Kentucky Fund 7.03 --
Louisiana Fund 7.24 6.50
Maryland Fund 6.93 6.19
Missouri Fund 6.96 6.22
North Carolina Fund 6.87 6.12
Texas Fund 6.52 5.83
Virginia Fund 6.94 6.20
As of February 28, 1999, the combined federal and state income tax rate
upon which the taxable-equivalent yield quotations are based were as
follows:
COMBINED
RATE 1
-----------------------------------
Alabama Fund 42.6%
Florida Fund 39.6
Georgia Fund 43.2
Kentucky Fund 43.2
Louisiana Fund 43.2
Maryland Fund 44.3
Missouri Fund 43.2
North Carolina Fund 44.3
Texas Fund 39.6
Virginia Fund 43.1
1. Based on the maximum combined state and 39.6% federal tax rate.
From time to time, as any changes to the rate become effective,
taxable-equivalent yield quotations advertised by a fund will be updated
to reflect these changes. Each fund expects updates may be necessary as
tax rates are changed by federal and state governments. The advantage of
tax-free investments, like the funds, will be enhanced by any tax rate
increases. Therefore, the details of specific tax increases may be used
in sales material for each fund.
CURRENT DISTRIBUTION RATE Current yield and taxable-equivalent yield, which
are calculated according to a formula prescribed by the SEC, are not
indicative of the amounts which were or will be paid to shareholders. Amounts
paid to shareholders are reflected in the quoted current distribution rate or
taxable-equivalent distribution rate. The current distribution rate is
usually computed by annualizing the dividends paid per share by a class
during a certain period and dividing that amount by the current maximum
offering price. The current distribution rate differs from the current yield
computation because it may include distributions to shareholders from sources
other than interest, if any, and is calculated over a different period of
time. The current distribution rates for the 30-day period ended February 28,
1999, were:
CURRENT DISTRIBUTION RATE
----------------------------
CLASS A (%) CLASS C (%)
-------------------------------------------------
Alabama Fund 4.92 4.47
Florida Fund 4.82 4.38
Georgia Fund 4.71 4.33
Kentucky Fund 4.86 --
Louisiana Fund 4.86 4.41
Maryland Fund 4.53 4.08
Missouri Fund 4.71 4.29
North Carolina Fund 4.68 4.23
Texas Fund 4.88 4.39
Virginia Fund 4.69 4.27
A taxable-equivalent distribution rate shows the taxable distribution rate
equivalent to the current distribution rate. The advertised
taxable-equivalent distribution rate will reflect the most current federal
and state tax rates available to the funds. The taxable-equivalent
distribution rates for the 30-day period ended February 28, 1999, were:
TAXABLE-EQUIVALENT
DISTRIBUTION RATE
----------------------------
CLASS A (%) CLASS C (%)
-------------------------------------------------
Alabama Fund 8.57 7.79
Florida Fund 7.98 7.25
Georgia Fund 8.30 7.63
Kentucky Fund 8.56 --
Louisiana Fund 8.56 7.77
Maryland Fund 8.13 7.32
Missouri Fund 8.30 7.56
North Carolina Fund 8.40 7.59
Texas Fund 8.08 7.27
Virginia Fund 8.24 7.50
VOLATILITY Occasionally statistics may be used to show a fund's volatility
or risk. Measures of volatility or risk are generally used to compare a
fund's net asset value or performance to a market index. One measure of
volatility is beta. Beta is the volatility of a fund relative to the total
market, as represented by an index considered representative of the types of
securities in which the fund invests. A beta of more than 1.00 indicates
volatility greater than the market and a beta of less than 1.00 indicates
volatility less than the market. Another measure of volatility or risk is
standard deviation. Standard deviation is used to measure variability of net
asset value or total return around an average over a specified period of
time. The idea is that greater volatility means greater risk undertaken in
achieving performance.
OTHER PERFORMANCE QUOTATIONS Each fund also may quote the performance of
shares without a sales charge. Sales literature and advertising may quote a
cumulative total return, average annual total return and other measures of
performance with the substitution of net asset value for the public offering
price.
Each fund may include in its advertising or sales material information
relating to investment goals and performance results of funds belonging to
the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Franklin Resources, Inc. is the parent
company of the advisors and underwriter of the Franklin Templeton Group of
Funds.
COMPARISONS To help you better evaluate how an investment in the funds may
satisfy your investment goal, advertisements and other materials about the
funds may discuss certain measures of fund performance as reported by various
financial publications. Materials also may compare performance (as calculated
above) to performance as reported by other investments, indices, and
averages. These comparisons may include, but are not limited to, the
following examples:
o Salomon Brothers Broad Bond Index or its component indices - measures
yield, price and total return for Treasury, agency, corporate and mortgage
bonds.
o Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index or its component indices - measures
yield, price and total return for Treasury, agency, corporate, mortgage
and Yankee bonds.
o Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index or its component indices - measures
yield, price and total return for the municipal bond market.
o Bond Buyer 20 Index - an index of municipal bond yields based upon yields
of 20 general obligation bonds maturing in 20 years.
o Bond Buyer 40 Index - an index composed of the yield to maturity of 40
bonds. The index attempts to track the new-issue market as closely as
possible, so it changes bonds twice a month, adding all new bonds that
meet certain requirements and deleting an equivalent number according to
their secondary market trading activity. As a result, the average par call
date, average maturity date, and average coupon rate can and have changed
over time. The average maturity generally has been about 29-30 years.
o Financial publications: The WALL STREET JOURNAL, and BUSINESS WEEK,
FINANCIAL WORLD, FORBES, FORTUNE, and MONEY magazines - provide
performance statistics over specified time periods.
o Salomon Brothers Composite High Yield Index or its component indices -
measures yield, price and total return for the Long-Term High-Yield Index,
Intermediate-Term High-Yield Index, and Long-Term Utility High-Yield Index.
o Historical data supplied by the research departments of CS First Boston
Corporation, the J. P. Morgan companies, Salomon Brothers, Merrill Lynch,
Lehman Brothers and Bloomberg L.P.
o Morningstar - information published by Morningstar, Inc., including
Morningstar proprietary mutual fund ratings. The ratings reflect
Morningstar's assessment of the historical risk-adjusted performance of a
fund over specified time periods relative to other funds within its
category.
o Lipper - Mutual Fund Performance Analysis and Lipper - Fixed Income Fund
Performance Analysis - measure total return and average current yield for
the mutual fund industry and rank individual mutual fund performance over
specified time periods, assuming reinvestment of all distributions,
exclusive of any applicable sales charges.
o Savings and Loan Historical Interest Rates -
as published in the U.S. Savings & Loan League Fact Book.
o Consumer Price Index (or Cost of Living Index), published by the U.S.
Bureau of Labor Statistics - a statistical measure of change, over time,
in the price of goods and services in major expenditure groups.
o CDA Mutual Fund Report, published by CDA Investment Technologies, Inc. -
analyzes price, current yield, risk, total return, and average rate of
return (average annual compounded growth rate) over specified time periods
for the mutual fund industry.
o Standard & Poor's Bond Indices - measure yield and price of corporate,
municipal, and government bonds.
From time to time, advertisements or information for each fund may include a
discussion of certain attributes or benefits to be derived from an investment
in the fund. The advertisements or information may include symbols,
headlines, or other material that highlights or summarizes the information
discussed in more detail in the communication.
Advertisements or sales material issued by each fund also may discuss or be
based upon information in a recent issue of the Special Report on Tax Freedom
Day published by the Tax Foundation, a Washington, D.C. based nonprofit
research and public education organization. The report illustrates, among
other things, the annual amount of time the average taxpayer works to satisfy
his or her tax obligations to the federal, state and local taxing authorities.
Advertisements or information also may compare each fund's performance to the
return on certificates of deposit (CDs) or other investments. You should be
aware, however, that an investment in the fund involves the risk of
fluctuation of principal value, a risk generally not present in an investment
in a CD issued by a bank. For example, as the general level of interest rates
rise, the value of the fund's fixed-income investments, as well as the value
of its shares that are based upon the value of such portfolio investments,
can be expected to decrease. Conversely, when interest rates decrease, the
value of the fund's shares can be expected to increase. CDs are frequently
insured by an agency of the U.S. government. An investment in the fund is not
insured by any federal, state or private entity.
In assessing comparisons of performance, you should keep in mind that the
composition of the investments in the reported indices and averages is not
identical to the fund's portfolio, the indices and averages are generally
unmanaged, and the items included in the calculations of the averages may not
be identical to the formula used by the fund to calculate its figures. In
addition, there can be no assurance that the fund will continue its
performance as compared to these other averages.
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The funds may help you achieve various investment goals such as accumulating
money for retirement, saving for a down payment on a home, college costs and
other long-term goals. The Franklin College Costs Planner may help you in
determining how much money must be invested on a monthly basis in order to
have a projected amount available in the future to fund a child's college
education. (Projected college cost estimates are based upon current costs
published by the College Board.) The Franklin Retirement Planning Guide leads
you through the steps to start a retirement savings program. Of course, an
investment in the funds cannot guarantee that these goals will be met.
The funds are members of the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds, one of the
largest mutual fund organizations in the U.S., and may be considered in a
program for diversification of assets. Founded in 1947, Franklin is one of
the oldest mutual fund organizations and now services more than 4 million
shareholder accounts. In 1992, Franklin, a leader in managing fixed-income
mutual funds and an innovator in creating domestic equity funds, joined
forces with Templeton, a pioneer in international investing. The Mutual
Series team, known for its value-driven approach to domestic equity
investing, became part of the organization four years later. Together, the
Franklin Templeton Group has over $216 billion in assets under management for
approximately 7 million U.S. based mutual fund shareholder and other
accounts. The Franklin Templeton Group of Funds offers 114 U.S. based
open-end investment companies to the public. Each fund may identify itself by
its NASDAQ symbol or CUSIP number.
Franklin is a leader in the tax-free mutual fund industry and manages more
than $51 billion in municipal security assets for over three quarters of a
million investors. According to Research and Ratings Review, Franklin had one
of the largest staffs of municipal securities analysts in the industry, as of
June 30, 1998.
Under current tax laws, municipal securities remain one of the few
investments offering the potential for tax-free income. In 1999, taxes could
cost almost $47 on every $100 earned from a fully taxable investment (based
on the maximum combined 39.6% federal tax rate and the highest state tax rate
of 12% for 1999). Franklin tax-free funds, however, offer tax relief through
a professionally managed portfolio of tax-free securities selected based on
their yield, quality and maturity. An investment in a Franklin tax-free fund
can provide you with the potential to earn income free of federal taxes and,
depending on the fund, state and local taxes as well, while supporting state
and local public projects. Franklin tax-free funds also may provide tax-free
compounding, when dividends are reinvested. An investment in Franklin's
tax-free funds can grow more rapidly than similar taxable investments.
Municipal securities are generally considered to be creditworthy, second in
quality only to securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government and
its agencies. The market price of municipal securities, however, may
fluctuate. This fluctuation will have a direct impact on the net asset value
of the fund's shares.
Currently, there are more mutual funds than there are stocks listed on the
New York Stock Exchange. While many of them have similar investment goals, no
two are exactly alike. Shares of the fund are generally sold through
securities dealers, whose investment representatives are experienced
professionals who can offer advice on the type of investments suitable to
your unique goals and needs, as well as the risks associated with such
investments.
The Information Services & Technology division of Franklin Resources, Inc.
(Resources) established a Year 2000 Project Team in 1996. This team has
already begun making necessary software changes to help the computer systems
that service the fund and its shareholders to be Year 2000 compliant. After
completing these modifications, comprehensive tests are conducted in one of
Resources' U.S. test labs to verify their effectiveness. Resources continues
to seek reasonable assurances from all major hardware, software or
data-services suppliers that they will be Year 2000 compliant on a timely
basis. Resources is also beginning to develop a contingency plan, including
identification of those mission critical systems for which it is practical to
develop a contingency plan. However, in an operation as complex and
geographically distributed as Resources' business, the alternatives to use of
normal systems, especially mission critical systems, or supplies of
electricity or long distance voice and data lines are limited.
DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MUNICIPAL BOND RATINGS
MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. (MOODY'S)
Aaa: Municipal bonds rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt-edged." Interest payments are protected by a large or exceptionally
stable margin, and principal is secure. While the various protective elements
are likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to
impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
Aa: Municipal bonds rated Aa are judged to be high quality by all standards.
Together with the Aaa group, they comprise what are generally known as
high-grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large, fluctuation of protective elements may be of
greater amplitude, or there may be other elements present that make the
long-term risks appear somewhat larger.
A: Municipal bonds rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and
are considered upper medium-grade obligations. Factors giving security to
principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present
that suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Baa: Municipal bonds rated Baa are considered medium-grade obligations. They
are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and
principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any
great length of time. These bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics
and, in fact, have speculative characteristics as well.
Ba: Municipal bonds rated Ba are judged to have predominantly speculative
elements and their future cannot be considered well assured. Often the
protection of interest and principal payments may be very moderate and,
thereby, not well safeguarded during both good and bad times over the future.
Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class.
B: Municipal bonds rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable
investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of
other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
Caa: Municipal bonds rated Caa are of poor standing. These issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal
or interest.
Ca: Municipal bonds rated Ca represent obligations that are speculative to a
high degree. These issues are often in default or have other marked
shortcomings.
C: Municipal bonds rated C are the lowest-rated class of bonds and issues so
rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining
any real investment standing.
Con.(-): Municipal bonds for which the security depends upon the completion
of some act or the fulfillment of some condition are rated conditionally.
These are bonds secured by (a) earnings of projects under construction, (b)
earnings of projects unseasoned in operation experience, (c) rentals that
begin when facilities are completed, or (d) payments to which some other
limiting condition attaches. Parenthetical rating denotes probable credit
stature upon the completion of construction or the elimination of the basis
of the condition.
STANDARD & POOR'S CORPORATION (S&P)
AAA: Municipal bonds rated AAA are the highest-grade obligations. They
possess the ultimate degree of protection as to principal and interest. In
the market, they move with interest rates and, hence, provide the maximum
safety on all counts.
AA: Municipal bonds rated AA also qualify as high-grade obligations, and in
the majority of instances differ from AAA issues only in a small degree.
Here, too, prices move with the long-term money market.
A: Municipal bonds rated A are regarded as upper medium-grade. They have
considerable investment strength but are not entirely free from adverse
effects of changes in economic and trade conditions. Interest and principal
are regarded as safe. They predominantly reflect money rates in their market
behavior but also, to some extent, economic conditions.
BBB: Municipal bonds rated BBB are regarded as having an adequate capacity to
pay principal and interest. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate protection
parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more
likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay principal and interest for bonds
in this category than for bonds in the A category.
BB, B, CCC, CC: Municipal bonds rated BB, B, CCC and CC are regarded, on
balance, as predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity
to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the
obligations. BB indicates the lowest degree of speculation and CC the highest
degree of speculation. While these bonds will likely have some quality and
protective characteristics, they are outweighed by large uncertainties or
major risk exposures to adverse conditions.
C: This rating is reserved for income bonds on which no interest is being
paid.
D: Debt rated "D" is in default and payment of interest and/or repayment of
principal is in arrears.
Plus (+) or minus (-): The ratings from "AA" to "CCC" may be modified by the
addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within the major
rating categories.
FITCH INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. (FITCH)
AAA: Municipal bonds rated AAA are considered to be investment grade and of
the highest credit quality. The obligor has an exceptionally strong ability
to pay interest and repay principal that is unlikely to be affected by
reasonably foreseeable events.
AA: Municipal bonds rated AA are considered to be investment grade and of
very high credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay
principal is very strong although not quite as strong as bonds rated AAA and
not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable future developments.
A: Municipal bonds rated A are considered to be investment grade and of high
credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is
considered to be strong, but may be more vulnerable to adverse changes in
economic conditions and circumstances than bonds with higher ratings.
BBB: Municipal bonds rated BBB are considered to be investment grade and of
satisfactory credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay
principal is considered adequate. Adverse changes in economic conditions and
circumstances, however, are more likely to have an adverse impact on these
bonds, and therefore impair timely payment. The likelihood that the ratings
of these bonds will fall below investment grade is higher than for bonds with
higher ratings.
BB: Municipal bonds rated BB are considered speculative. The obligor's
ability to pay interest and repay principal may be affected over time by
adverse economic changes. Business and financial alternatives can be
identified, however, that could assist the obligor in satisfying its debt
service requirements.
B: Municipal bonds rated B are considered highly speculative. While bonds in
this class are currently meeting debt service requirements, the probability
of continued timely payment of principal and interest reflects the obligor's
limited margin of safety and the need for reasonable business and economic
activity throughout the life of the issue.
CCC: Municipal bonds rated CCC have certain identifiable characteristics
which, if not remedied, may lead to default. The ability to meet obligations
requires an advantageous business and economic environment.
CC: Municipal bonds rated CC are minimally protected. Default in payment of
interest and/or principal seems probable over time.
C: Municipal bonds rated C are in imminent default in the payment of interest
or principal.
DDD, DD and D: Municipal bonds rated DDD, DD and D are in default on interest
and/or principal payments. Such bonds are extremely speculative and should be
valued on the basis of their ultimate recovery value in liquidation or
reorganization of the obligor. DDD represents the highest potential for
recovery while D represents the lowest potential for recovery.
Plus (+) or minus (-) signs are used with a rating symbol to indicate the
relative position of a credit within the rating category. Plus or minus signs
are not used with the AAA, DDD, DD or D categories.
MUNICIPAL NOTE RATINGS
MOODY'S
Moody's ratings for state, municipal and other short-term obligations will be
designated Moody's Investment Grade (MIG). This distinction is in recognition
of the differences between short-term credit risk and long-term risk. Factors
affecting the liquidity of the borrower are uppermost in importance in
short-term borrowing; factors of the first importance in long-term borrowing
risk are of lesser importance in the short run. Symbols used will be as
follows:
MIG 1: Notes are of the best quality enjoying strong protection from
established cash flows of funds for their servicing or from established and
broad-based access to the market for refinancing, or both.
MIG 2: Notes are of high quality, with margins of protection ample, although
not so large as in the preceding group.
MIG 3: Notes are of favorable quality, with all security elements accounted
for, but lacking the undeniable strength of the preceding grades. Market
access for refinancing, in particular, is likely to be less well established.
MIG 4: Notes are of adequate quality, carrying specific risk but having
protection and not distinctly or predominantly speculative.
S&P
Until June 29, 1984, S&P used the same rating symbols for notes and bonds.
After June 29, 1984, for new municipal note issues due in three years or
less, the ratings below will usually be assigned. Notes maturing beyond three
years will most likely receive a bond rating of the type recited above.
SP-1: Issues carrying this designation have a very strong or strong capacity
to pay principal and interest. Issues determined to possess overwhelming
safety characteristics will be given a "plus" (+) designation.
SP-2: Issues carrying this designation have a satisfactory capacity to pay
principal and interest.
COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
MOODY'S
Moody's commercial paper ratings, which are also applicable to municipal
paper investments, are opinions of the ability of issuers to repay punctually
their promissory obligations not having an original maturity in excess of
nine months. Moody's employs the following designations for both short-term
debt and commercial paper, all judged to be investment grade, to indicate the
relative repayment capacity of rated issuers:
P-1 (Prime-1): Superior capacity for repayment.
P-2 (Prime-2): Strong capacity for repayment.
S&P
S&P's ratings are a current assessment of the likelihood of timely payment of
debt having an original maturity of no more than 365 days. Ratings are graded
into four categories, ranging from "A" for the highest quality obligations to
"D" for the lowest. Issues within the "A" category are delineated with the
numbers 1, 2 and 3 to indicate the relative degree of safety, as follows:
A-1: This designation indicates the degree of safety regarding timely payment
is very strong. A "plus" (+) designation indicates an even stronger
likelihood of timely payment.
A-2: Capacity for timely payment on issues with this designation is strong.
The relative degree of safety, however, is not as overwhelming as for issues
designated A-1.
A-3: Issues carrying this designation have a satisfactory capacity for timely
payment. They are, however, somewhat more vulnerable to the adverse effects
of changes in circumstances than obligations carrying the higher designations.
FITCH
Fitch's short-term ratings apply to debt obligations that are payable on
demand or have original maturities of generally up to three years, including
commercial paper, certificates of deposit, medium-term notes, and municipal
and investment notes. The short-term rating places greater emphasis than a
long-term rating on the existence of liquidity necessary to meet the issuer's
obligations in a timely manner.
F-1+: Exceptionally strong credit quality. Regarded as having the strongest
degree of assurance for timely payment.
F-1: Very strong credit quality. Reflect an assurance of timely payment only
slightly less in degree than issues rated F-1+.
F-2: Good credit quality. A satisfactory degree of assurance for timely
payment, but the margin of safety is not as great as for issues assigned F-1+
and F-1 ratings.
F-3: Fair credit quality. Have characteristics suggesting that the degree of
assurance for timely payment is adequate; however, near-term adverse changes
could cause these securities to be rated below investment grade.
F-5: Weak credit quality. Have characteristics suggesting a minimal degree of
assurance for timely payment and are vulnerable to near-term adverse changes
in financial and economic conditions.
D: Default. Actual or imminent payment default.
LOC: The symbol LOC indicates that the rating is based on a letter of credit
issued by a commercial bank.
STATE TAX TREATMENT
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The following information on the state income tax treatment of dividends from
a fund is based upon correspondence and sources believed to be reliable.
Except where otherwise noted, the information pertains to individual state
income taxation only. You may be subject to local taxes on dividends or the
value of your shares. Corporations, trusts, estates and other entities may be
subject to other taxes and should consult with their tax advisors or their
state department of revenue. For some investors, a portion of the dividend
income may be subject to the federal and/or state alternative minimum tax.
ALABAMA
Under Section 40-18-14(2)f of the Alabama Code, interest on obligations of
the state of Alabama and any of its counties, municipalities or other
political subdivisions is exempt from personal income tax. Section
40-18-14(2)d provides similar tax-exempt treatment for interest on exempt
obligations of the U.S. government or its possessions including Puerto Rico,
Guam and the Virgin Islands. In addition, Regulation Section
810-3-14-.02(4)(b)2 and an administrative ruling of the Alabama Department of
Revenue, dated March 1, 1990, both extend the exemption for obligations of
the U.S. government or its possessions to distributions from a regulated
investment company, such as the Alabama Fund, to the extent that the
distributions are paid from interest earned on such exempt obligations. The
March 1, 1990, ruling (as well as the instructions to Alabama Form 40) also
indicates that the exemption would apply to Alabama municipal obligations.
Tax-exempt treatment is generally not available for distributions
attributable to income earned on indirect U.S. government obligations or
obligations of other states and their political subdivisions. To the extent
such investments are made by the fund, distributions from those investments
will generally be taxable.
Any distributions of net short-term and net long-term capital gains earned by
the fund are fully includable in each individual shareholder's Alabama
taxable income and are currently taxed at ordinary income tax rates.
FLORIDA
Florida does not have a personal income tax but does have an intangible
personal property tax for residents. According to Florida Statute Section
199.185 and Technical Assistance Advisement 90(C)2-003, issued by the Florida
Department of Revenue on August 8, 1990 (as later revised), shares in
regulated investment companies organized as business trusts, such as the
Florida Fund, will not be subject to Florida's intangible property tax to the
extent that the fund is invested in exempt obligations of the U.S.
government, its agencies, instrumentalities and territories (including Puerto
Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands) at the close of business on the last
business day of the previous calendar year. If the fund invests all of the
remaining portion of its Net Asset Value in exempt obligations of the state
of Florida or its municipalities or political subdivisions on such date, then
that remaining portion of the Net Asset Value of the fund (and corresponding
value of fund shares) will also be exempt from Florida's intangibles tax.
According to Florida Technical Assistance Advisement 94(c)2-025, if the fund
invests, such as for temporary or defensive purposes, any of the remaining
portion of its portfolio in any asset that is taxable under Florida's
intangible tax law, including investments in indirect federal obligations
(GNMAs, FNMAs, etc.) or obligations of any other states, then only the
portion of Net Asset Value, if any, that is made up of direct obligations of
the U.S. government, or territories and possessions of the U.S. government,
may be excluded from tax. The remaining Net Asset Value of the fund (and
corresponding value of fund shares) is then subject to tax.
GEORGIA
Under Section 48-7-27(b)(1)(A) of the Georgia Code, interest on obligations
of the state of Georgia and its political subdivisions, which is not
otherwise included in federal adjusted gross income, is exempt from the
state's individual income tax. Likewise, under Section 48-7-27(b)(2) interest
on exempt obligations of the U.S. government, its territories and possessions
(including Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands), or of any authority,
commission, or instrumentality of the U.S. government is also exempt from the
state's individual income tax. Since distributions from the Georgia Fund
attributable to interest on obligations of the state of Georgia and its
political subdivisions is excluded from federal adjusted gross income, they
will likewise be excluded from the Georgia individual income tax.
The exempt treatment for interest derived from such exempt obligations is
also extended to distributions of regulated investment companies, such as the
Georgia Fund. Tax-exempt treatment is generally not available for
distributions attributable to income earned on indirect U.S. government
obligations (GNMAs, FNMAs, etc.) or for obligations of other states and their
political subdivisions. To the extent such investments are made by a fund,
such as for temporary or defensive purposes, such distributions will
generally be taxable.
Any distributions of net short-term and net long-term capital gains earned by
the fund are fully included in each individual shareholder's Georgia taxable
income as dividend income and long-term capital gain, respectively, and are
currently taxed at ordinary income tax rates.
Georgia previously imposed an intangibles tax on, among other things, shares
of corporate stock, including stock of mutual funds. The tax was repealed
effective January 1, 1997, and applicable to all tax years beginning on or
after January 1, 1996.
KENTUCKY
Pursuant to Kentucky Revised Statute 141.010(10)(a) and (12)(a), interest
earned on exempt obligations of the U.S. government, its agencies and
instrumentalities, or its territories (including Puerto Rico, Guam and the
Virgin Islands) and obligations issued by the Commonwealth of Kentucky or its
political subdivisions will be exempt from Kentucky's personal income tax.
Under Kentucky Income Tax Revenue Policy 42P161 (as revised December 1,
1990), dividends from regulated investment companies, such as the Kentucky
Fund, which are derived from such exempt obligations, will also be exempt
from state income tax. Tax-exempt treatment is generally not available for
distributions attributable to income earned on indirect U.S. government
obligations (GNMAs, FNMAs, etc.) or for obligations of other states and their
political subdivisions. To the extent such investments are made by the fund,
such as for temporary or defensive purposes, such distributions will
generally be taxable.
Any distributions of net short-term and net long-term capital gains earned by
the fund are includable in each shareholder's Kentucky adjusted gross income
and are taxed at ordinary income tax rates. Kentucky Revenue Circular 40C003
also states that gain from the sale of some U.S. government and Kentucky
obligations may be exempt from state income tax, but the availability of the
exemption depends upon the specific legislation authorizing the bonds. A
specific opinion may be requested from the Kentucky Revenue Cabinet.
LOUISIANA
Under Section 47:293 of Louisiana's individual income tax law, interest
earned on exempt obligations of the state of Louisiana or its political
subdivisions and interest earned on exempt obligations of the U.S. government
or its agencies and possessions (including Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin
Islands) is exempt from individual and corporate income tax. Under Section
47:293, distributions from a regulated investment company, such as the
Louisiana Fund, will also be exempt from individual and corporate income tax
to the extent that they are derived from interest earned on such exempt
obligations. Tax-exempt treatment is generally not available for
distributions attributable to income earned on indirect U.S. government
obligations (GNMAs, FNMAs, etc.) or for obligations of other states and their
political subdivisions. To the extent such investments are made by the fund,
such as for temporary or defensive purposes, such distributions will
generally be taxable.
Any distributions of net short-term and net long-term capital gains earned by
the fund are included in each shareholder's Louisiana taxable income and are
currently taxed at ordinary income tax rates.
MARYLAND
Distributions from the Maryland Fund attributable to interest on obligations
of the state of Maryland and its political subdivisions are excluded from
Maryland's personal income tax. Under Section 10-207 of the Tax General
Article, interest on exempt obligations of the U.S. government and any
authority, commission, instrumentality, possession or territory of the U.S.
(including Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands) is also exempt from
Maryland's personal income tax. Under Section 10-207(c-1) and Administrative
Release No. 11, this exemption is extended to distributions from a regulated
investment company, such as the Maryland Fund, to the extent such
distributions are paid out of interest earned on exempt obligations of the
U.S. government or its agencies and possessions (including Puerto Rico, Guam
and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Tax-exempt treatment is generally not available
for distributions attributable to income earned on indirect U.S. government
obligations (GNMAs, FNMAs, etc.) or for obligations of other states and their
political subdivisions. To the extent such investments are made by the fund,
such as for temporary or defensive purposes, such distributions will
generally be taxable.
Any distributions of capital gains by the fund derived from gain realized
from the sale or exchange of obligations issued by the state of Maryland or
its political subdivisions may also be tax-exempt to the fund's shareholders.
Distributions of all net short-term capital gain and net long-term capital
gain earned by the fund on non-Maryland obligations are includable in each
shareholder's Maryland adjusted gross income and are taxed at ordinary income
tax rates.
MISSOURI
Under Section 143.121 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, interest earned on
exempt obligations of the U.S. government, its authorities, commissions,
instrumentalities, possessions or territories (including Puerto Rico, Guam
and the Virgin Islands), or the state of Missouri, its political subdivisions
or authorities are exempt from Missouri personal income tax. Under Missouri's
income tax regulations (Title 12, Section 10-2.155), a regulated investment
company such as the Missouri Fund may pass the tax-exempt character of such
interest through to its shareholders. Tax-exempt treatment is generally not
available for distributions attributable to income earned on indirect U.S.
government obligations (GNMAs, FNMAs, etc.) or for obligations of other
states and their political subdivisions. To the extent such investments are
made by the fund, such as for temporary or defensive purposes, such
distributions will generally be taxable.
Any distributions of net short-term and net long-term capital gains earned by
the fund are included in each shareholder's Missouri taxable income and are
currently taxed at ordinary income tax rates.
NORTH CAROLINA
Section 105-134.6(b)(1) of the North Carolina General Statutes provides that
interest on exempt obligations of the U.S. government, its possessions, or
its territories (including Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands) and
exempt obligations of the state of North Carolina or its political
subdivisions are exempt from state income tax. Pursuant to a North Carolina
Department of Revenue Information Release dated October 4, 1990, dividends
received from a regulated investment company, such as the North Carolina
Fund, are exempt from personal income tax to the extent that the
distributions are derived from interest on such exempt obligations.
Tax-exempt treatment is generally not available for distributions
attributable to income earned on indirect U.S. government obligations (GNMAs,
FNMAs, etc.) or for obligations of other states and their political
subdivisions. To the extent such investments are made by the fund, such as
for temporary or defensive purposes, such distributions will generally be
taxable.
Distributions of capital gains attributable from the sale of certain North
Carolina obligations issued prior to July 1, 1995, may be exempt from
taxation for the fund's shareholders. Distributions of all net short-term
capital gain and net long-term capital gain earned by the fund on all other
North Carolina obligations and on non-North Carolina obligations are
includable in each shareholder's North Carolina taxable income and are
currently taxed at ordinary income rates.
TEXAS
Texas does not presently impose any income tax on individuals, trusts, or
estates.
VIRGINIA
Section 58.1-322 of the Code of Virginia provides that interest on
obligations of the state of Virginia, its political subdivisions, and
instrumentalities or direct obligations of the U.S. government or its
authorities, commission, instrumentalities or territories (including Puerto
Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands) is exempt from personal income tax. Under
Section 23 Virginia Administrative Code 10-110-14, distributions from a
regulated investment company, such as the Virginia Fund, will also be exempt
from personal income tax if the fund invests in such exempt obligations.
Tax-exempt treatment is generally not available for distributions
attributable to income earned on indirect U.S. government obligations (GNMAs,
FNMAs, etc.) or for obligations of other states and their political
subdivisions. To the extent such investments are made by the fund, such as
for temporary or defensive purposes, such distributions will generally be
taxable.
Any distributions of net short-term and net long-term capital gains earned by
the fund are included in each shareholder's Virginia taxable income and are
currently taxed at ordinary income tax rates.
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST
FRANKLIN ARIZONA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & C
FRANKLIN COLORADO TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & C
FRANKLIN CONNECTICUT TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & C
FRANKLIN FEDERAL INTERMEDIATE-TERM TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
FRANKLIN HIGH YIELD TAX-FREE INCOME FUND CLASS A, B & C
FRANKLIN INDIANA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
FRANKLIN MICHIGAN TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
FRANKLIN NEW JERSEY TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & C
FRANKLIN OREGON TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & C
FRANKLIN PENNSYLVANIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & C
FRANKLIN PUERTO RICO TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A & C
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
JULY 1, 1999
P.O. BOX 997151
SACRAMENTO, CA 95899-9983 1-800/DIAL BEN(R)
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) is not a prospectus. It
contains information in addition to the information in the fund's prospectus.
The fund's prospectus, dated July 1, 1999, which we may amend from time to
time, contains the basic information you should know before investing in the
fund. You should read this SAI together with the fund's prospectus.
The audited financial statements and auditor's report in the trust's Annual
Report to Shareholders, for the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999, are
incorporated by reference (are legally a part of this SAI).
For a free copy of the current prospectus or annual report, contact your
investment representative or call 1-800/DIAL BEN (1-800/342-5236).
CONTENTS
Goals and Strategies
Risks
Officers and Trustees
Management and Other Services
Portfolio Transactions
Distributions and Taxes
Organization, Voting Rights and Principal Holders
Buying and Selling Shares
Pricing Shares
The Underwriter
Performance
Miscellaneous Information
Description of Ratings
State Tax Treatment
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MUTUAL FUNDS, ANNUITIES, AND OTHER INVESTMENT PRODUCTS:
o ARE NOT FEDERALLY INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION,
THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD, OR ANY OTHER AGENCY OF THE U.S. GOVERNMENT;
o ARE NOT DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS OF, OR GUARANTEED OR ENDORSED BY, ANY
BANK;
o ARE SUBJECT TO INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING THE POSSIBLE LOSS OF
PRINCIPAL.
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GOALS AND STRATEGIES
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The Federal Intermediate Fund's investment goal is to provide investors with
as high a level of income exempt from federal income taxes, including the
individual alternative minimum tax, as is consistent with prudent investing,
while seeking preservation of shareholders' capital.
The High Yield Fund's principal investment goal is to provide investors with
a high current yield exempt from federal income taxes. Its secondary goal is
capital appreciation to the extent possible and consistent with the fund's
principal investment goal.
The Puerto Rico Fund's investment goal is to provide investors with as high a
level of income exempt from federal income taxes as is consistent with
prudent investing, while seeking preservation of shareholders' capital. The
Puerto Rico Fund also seeks to provide a maximum level of income that is free
from the personal income taxes of a majority of states, although this policy
is not a fundamental investment goal of the fund and may be changed without
shareholder approval.
Each state fund's investment goal is to provide investors with as high a
level of income exempt from federal income taxes and from personal income
taxes for resident shareholders of the fund's state as is consistent with
prudent investing, while seeking preservation of shareholders' capital.
These goals are fundamental, which means they may not be changed without
shareholder approval. Of course, there is no assurance that any fund will
meet its goal.
As a fundamental policy, each fund normally invests at least 80% of its
assets in securities that pay interest free from federal income taxes,
including the federal alternative minimum tax. Each fund applies this test to
its net assets, except for the Federal Intermediate Fund, which applies this
test to its total assets. Each state fund, as a fundamental policy, also
normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in securities that pay
interest free from the personal income taxes, if any, of its state. As a
nonfundamental policy, each state fund and the Puerto Rico Fund also normally
invest at least 65% of their total assets in municipal securities of their
state or territory. Unlike the state and Puerto Rico Funds, the Federal
Intermediate and High Yield Funds are diversified nationally. The High Yield
Fund will not invest more than 25% of its total assets in the municipal
securities of any one state or territory.
Municipal securities issued by a fund's state or that state's counties,
municipalities, authorities, agencies, or other subdivisions, generally pay
interest free from federal income tax and from state personal income taxes,
if any, for residents of the fund's state. Municipal securities issued by
U.S. territories such as Guam, Puerto Rico, or the Mariana Islands also
generally pay interest free from state personal income taxes in a majority of
states.
Each fund tries to invest all of its assets in tax-free municipal securities.
The issuer's bond counsel generally gives the issuer an opinion on the
tax-exempt status of a municipal security when the security is issued.
Some states may require a fund to invest a certain amount of its assets in
securities of that state, or in securities that are otherwise tax-free under
the laws of that state, in order for any portion of the fund's distributions
to be free from the state's personal income taxes. If a fund's state requires
this, the fund will try to invest its assets as required so that its
distributions will be free from personal income taxes for resident
shareholder's of the fund's state.
As a fundamental policy, the Pennsylvania Fund invests in securities for
income earnings rather than trading for profit. The fund does not vary its
investments, except to (i) eliminate unsafe investments and investments that
are not consistent with the preservation of capital or the tax status of the
fund; (ii) honor redemption requests, meet anticipated redemption
requirements and negate gains from discount purchases; (iii) reinvest the
earnings from securities in like securities; or (iv) defray normal
administrative expenses.
Below is a description of various types of municipal and other securities
that each fund may buy. Other types of municipal securities may become
available that are similar to those described below and in which each fund
may also invest, if consistent with its investment goal and policies.
TAX ANTICIPATION NOTES are issued to finance short-term working capital needs
of municipalities in anticipation of various seasonal tax revenues, which
will be used to pay the notes. They are usually general obligations of the
issuer, secured by the taxing power for the payment of principal and interest.
REVENUE ANTICIPATION NOTES are similar to tax anticipation notes except they
are issued in expectation of the receipt of other kinds of revenue, such as
federal revenues available under the Federal Revenue Sharing Program.
BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES are normally issued to provide interim financing
until long-term financing can be arranged. Proceeds from long-term bond
issues then provide the money for the repayment of the notes.
CONSTRUCTION LOAN NOTES are issued to provide construction financing for
specific projects. After successful completion and acceptance, many projects
receive permanent financing through the Federal Housing Administration under
the Federal National Mortgage Association or the Government National Mortgage
Association.
TAX-EXEMPT COMMERCIAL PAPER typically represents a short-term obligation (270
days or less) issued by a municipality to meet working capital needs.
MUNICIPAL BONDS meet longer-term capital needs and generally have maturities
from one to 30 years when issued. They have two principal classifications:
general obligation bonds and revenue bonds.
GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS. Issuers of general obligation bonds include states,
counties, cities, towns and regional districts. The proceeds of these
obligations are used to fund a wide range of public projects, including
construction or improvement of schools, highways and roads. The basic
security behind general obligation bonds is the issuer's pledge of its full
faith, credit and taxing power for the payment of principal and interest. The
taxes that can be levied for the payment of debt service may be limited or
unlimited as to the rate or amount of special assessments.
REVENUE BONDS. The full faith, credit and taxing power of the issuer do not
secure revenue bonds. Instead, the principal security for a revenue bond is
generally the net revenue derived from a particular facility, group of
facilities, or, in some cases, the proceeds of a special excise tax or other
specific revenue source. Revenue bonds are issued to finance a wide variety
of capital projects, including: electric, gas, water and sewer systems;
highways, bridges and tunnels; port and airport facilities; colleges and
universities; and hospitals. The principal security behind these bonds may
vary. For example, housing finance authorities have a wide range of security,
including partially or fully insured mortgages, rent subsidized and/or
collateralized mortgages, and/or the net revenues from housing or other
public projects. Many bonds provide additional security in the form of a debt
service reserve fund that may be used to make principal and interest
payments. Some authorities have further security in the form of state
assurances (although without obligation) to make up deficiencies in the debt
service reserve fund.
TAX-EXEMPT INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT REVENUE BONDS are issued by or on behalf of
public authorities to finance various privately operated facilities for
business, manufacturing, housing, sports and pollution control, as well as
public facilities such as airports, mass transit systems, ports and parking.
The payment of principal and interest is solely dependent on the ability of
the facility's user to meet its financial obligations and the pledge, if any,
of the facility or other property as security for payment.
VARIABLE OR FLOATING RATE SECURITIES Each fund may invest in variable or
floating rate securities, including variable rate demand notes, which have
interest rates that change either at specific intervals (variable rate), from
daily up to monthly, or whenever a benchmark rate changes (floating rate).
The interest rate adjustments are designed to help stabilize the security's
price. Variable or floating rate securities may include a demand feature,
which may be unconditional. The demand feature allows the holder to demand
prepayment of the principal amount before maturity, generally on no more than
30 days' notice. The holder receives the principal amount plus any accrued
interest either from the issuer or by drawing on a bank letter of credit, a
guarantee or insurance issued with respect to the security.
MUNICIPAL LEASE OBLIGATIONS Each fund may invest in municipal lease
obligations, including certificates of participation. Municipal lease
obligations generally finance the purchase of public property. The property
is leased to the state or a local government, and the lease payments are used
to pay the interest on the obligations. Municipal lease obligations differ
from other municipal securities because the lessee's governing body must
appropriate (set aside) the money to make the lease payments each year. If
the money is not appropriated, the issuer or the lessee can end the lease
without penalty. If the lease is cancelled, investors who own the municipal
lease obligations may not be paid.
The board of trustees reviews the fund's municipal lease obligations to try
to assure that they are liquid investments based on various factors reviewed
by the fund's manager and monitored by the board. These factors may include
(a) the credit quality of the obligations and the extent to which they are
rated or, if unrated, comply with existing criteria and procedures followed
to ensure that they are comparable in quality to the ratings required for the
fund to invest, including an assessment of the likelihood of the lease being
canceled, taking into account how essential the leased property is and the
term of the lease compared to the useful life of the leased property; (b) the
size of the municipal securities market, both in general and with respect to
municipal lease obligations; and (c) the extent to which the type of
municipal lease obligations held by the fund trade on the same basis and with
the same degree of dealer participation as other municipal securities of
comparable credit rating or quality.
Since annual appropriations are required to make lease payments, municipal
lease obligations generally are not subject to constitutional limitations on
the issuance of debt and may allow an issuer to increase government
liabilities beyond constitutional debt limits. When faced with increasingly
tight budgets, local governments have more discretion to curtail lease
payments under a municipal lease obligation than they do to curtail payments
on other municipal securities. If not enough money is appropriated to make
the lease payments, the leased property may be repossessed as security for
holders of the municipal lease obligations. If this happens, there is no
assurance that the property's private sector or re-leasing value will be
enough to make all outstanding payments on the municipal lease obligations or
that the payments will continue to be tax-free.
While cancellation risk is inherent to municipal lease obligations, each
fund, except the High Yield Fund, believes that this risk may be reduced,
although not eliminated, by its policies on the quality of securities in
which it may invest.
CALLABLE BONDS Each fund may invest in callable bonds, which allow the issuer
to repay some or all of the bonds ahead of schedule. If a bond is called, the
fund will receive the principal amount, the accrued interest, and may receive
a small additional payment as a call premium. The manager may sell a callable
bond before its call date, if it believes the bond is at its maximum premium
potential. When pricing callable bonds, the call feature is factored into the
price of the bonds and may impact the fund's net asset value.
An issuer is more likely to call its bonds when interest rates are falling,
because the issuer can issue new bonds with lower interest payments. If a
bond is called, the fund may have to replace it with a lower-yielding
security. A call of some or all of these securities may lower a fund's income
and its distributions to shareholders. If the fund originally paid a premium
for the bond because it had appreciated in value from its original issue
price, the fund also may not be able to recover the full amount it paid for
the bond. One way for the fund to protect itself from call risk is to buy
bonds with call protection. Call protection is an assurance that the bond
will not be called for a specific time period, typically five to 10 years
from when the bond is issued.
ESCROW-SECURED OR DEFEASED BONDS are created when an issuer refunds, before
maturity, an outstanding bond issue that is not immediately callable (or
pre-refunds), and sets aside funds for redemption of the bonds at a future
date. The issuer uses the proceeds from a new bond issue to buy high grade,
interest bearing debt securities, generally direct obligations of the U.S.
government. These securities are then deposited in an irrevocable escrow
account held by a trustee bank to secure all future payments of principal and
interest on the pre-refunded bond. Escrow-secured bonds often receive a
triple A or equivalent rating.
STRIPPED MUNICIPAL SECURITIES Municipal securities may be sold in "stripped"
form. Stripped municipal securities represent separate ownership of principal
and interest payments on municipal securities.
ZERO-COUPON SECURITIES Each fund may invest in zero-coupon and delayed
interest securities. Zero-coupon securities make no periodic interest
payments, but are sold at a deep discount from their face value. The buyer
recognizes a rate of return determined by the gradual appreciation of the
security, which is redeemed at face value on a specified maturity date. The
discount varies depending on the time remaining until maturity, as well as
market interest rates, liquidity of the security, and the issuer's perceived
credit quality. The discount, in the absence of financial difficulties of the
issuer, typically decreases as the final maturity date approaches. If the
issuer defaults, the fund may not receive any return on its investment.
Because zero-coupon securities bear no interest and compound semiannually at
the rate fixed at the time of issuance, their value is generally more
volatile than the value of other fixed-income securities. Since zero-coupon
bondholders do not receive interest payments, zero-coupon securities fall
more dramatically than bonds paying interest on a current basis when interest
rates rise. When interest rates fall, zero-coupon securities rise more
rapidly in value, because the bonds reflect a fixed rate of return.
An investment in zero-coupon and delayed interest securities may cause a fund
to recognize income and make distributions to shareholders before it receives
any cash payments on its investment. To generate cash to satisfy distribution
requirements, a fund may have to sell portfolio securities that it otherwise
would have continued to hold or to use cash flows from other sources such as
the sale of fund shares.
CONVERTIBLE AND STEP COUPON BONDS Each fund may invest a portion of its
assets in convertible and step coupon bonds. Convertible bonds are
zero-coupon securities until a predetermined date, at which time they convert
to a specified coupon security. The coupon on step coupon bonds changes
periodically during the life of the security based on predetermined dates
chosen when the security is issued.
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS are issued by the U.S. Treasury or by agencies
and instrumentalities of the U.S. government and are backed by the full faith
and credit of the U.S. government. They include Treasury bills, notes and
bonds.
COMMERCIAL PAPER is a promissory note issued by a corporation to finance its
short-term credit needs. Each fund may invest in taxable commercial paper
only for temporary defensive purposes.
WHEN-ISSUED TRANSACTIONS Municipal securities are frequently offered on a
"when-issued" basis. When so offered, the price, which is generally expressed
in yield terms, is fixed at the time the commitment to buy is made, but
delivery and payment take place at a later date. During the time between
purchase and settlement, no payment is made by the fund to the issuer and no
interest accrues to the fund. If the other party to the transaction fails to
deliver or pay for the security, the fund could miss a favorable price or
yield opportunity, or could experience a loss.
When the fund makes the commitment to buy a municipal security on a
when-issued basis, it records the transaction and reflects the value of the
security in the determination of its net asset value. The funds believe their
net asset value or income will not be negatively affected by their purchase
of municipal securities on a when-issued basis. The funds will not engage in
when-issued transactions for investment leverage purposes.
Although a fund will generally buy municipal securities on a when-issued
basis with the intention of acquiring the securities, it may sell the
securities before the settlement date if it is considered advisable. When a
fund is the buyer, it will maintain cash or liquid securities, with an
aggregate value equal to the amount of its purchase commitments, in a
segregated account with its custodian bank until payment is made. If assets
of a fund are held in cash pending the settlement of a purchase of
securities, the fund will not earn income on those assets.
ILLIQUID INVESTMENTS Each fund may invest up to 10% of its net assets in
illiquid securities. Illiquid securities are generally securities that cannot
be sold within seven days in the normal course of business at approximately
the amount at which the fund has valued them.
DIVERSIFICATION All of the funds, except the Connecticut, Federal
Intermediate and Michigan Funds, are diversified funds. The Connecticut,
Federal Intermediate and Michigan Funds are non-diversified. As a fundamental
policy, none of the diversified funds will buy a security if, with respect to
75% of its net assets, more than 5% would be in the securities of any single
issuer (with the exception of obligations of the U.S. government). For this
purpose, each political subdivision, agency, or instrumentality, each
multi-state agency of which a state is a member, and each public authority
that issues private activity bonds on behalf of a private entity, is
considered a separate issuer. Escrow-secured or defeased bonds are not
generally considered an obligation of the original municipality when
determining diversification.
Each fund, including the Connecticut, Federal Intermediate and Michigan
Funds, intends to meet certain diversification requirements for tax purposes.
Generally, to meet federal tax requirements at the close of each quarter, a
fund may not invest more than 25% of its total assets in any one issuer and,
with respect to 50% of total assets, may not invest more than 5% of its total
assets in any one issuer. These limitations do not apply to U.S. government
securities and may be revised if applicable federal income tax requirements
are revised.
TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS When the manager believes the securities trading
markets or the economy are experiencing excessive volatility or a prolonged
general decline, or other unusual or adverse conditions exist, it may invest
each fund's portfolio in a temporary defensive manner. Under these
circumstances, each fund may invest all of its assets in securities that pay
taxable interest, including (i) high quality commercial paper; (ii)
securities issued by or guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the U.S.
government; or (iii) for the state and Puerto Rico Funds, municipal
securities issued by a state, territory or local government other than the
fund's state or territory. Each fund also may invest all of its assets in
municipal securities issued by a U.S. territory such as Guam, Puerto Rico or
the Mariana Islands.
SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS The frequency of portfolio transactions, usually
referred to as the portfolio turnover rate, varies for each fund from year to
year, depending on market conditions. While short-term trading increases
portfolio turnover and may increase costs, the execution costs for municipal
securities are substantially less than for equivalent dollar values of equity
securities.
CREDIT QUALITY All things being equal, the lower a security's credit quality,
the higher the risk and the higher the yield the security generally must pay
as compensation to investors for the higher risk.
A security's credit quality depends on the issuer's ability to pay interest
on the security and, ultimately, to repay the principal. Independent rating
agencies, such as Fitch Investors Service Inc. (Fitch), Moody's Investors
Service, Inc. (Moody's), and Standard & Poor's Corporation (S&P), often rate
municipal securities based on their opinion of the issuer's credit quality.
Most rating agencies use a descending alphabet scale to rate long-term
securities, and a descending numerical scale to rate short-term securities.
These ratings are described at the end of this SAI under "Description of
Ratings."
An insurance company, bank or other foreign or domestic entity may provide
credit support for a municipal security and enhance its credit quality. For
example, some municipal securities are insured, which means they are covered
by an insurance policy that guarantees the timely payment of principal and
interest. Other municipal securities may be backed by letters of credit,
guarantees, or escrow or trust accounts that contain securities backed by the
full faith and credit of the U.S. government to secure the payment of
principal and interest.
As discussed in the prospectus, each fund has limitations on the credit
quality of securities it may buy. These limitations are generally applied
when a fund makes an investment so that a fund is not required to sell a
security because of a later change in circumstances.
The High Yield Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in high yield
securities. The High Yield Fund may invest in securities rated in any rating
category, including defaulted securities if the manager believes the issuer
may resume making interest payments or other favorable developments seem
likely in the near future. The High Yield Fund, however, currently does not
intend to invest more than 10% of its assets in defaulted securities.
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS Each fund has adopted the following restrictions as
fundamental policies. This means they may only be changed if the change is
approved by (i) more than 50% of the fund's outstanding shares or (ii) 67% or
more of the fund's shares present at a shareholder meeting if more than 50%
of the fund's outstanding shares are represented at the meeting in person or
by proxy, whichever is less.
Each fund may not:
1. Borrow money or mortgage or pledge any of its assets, except that
borrowings (and a pledge of assets therefore) for temporary or emergency
purposes may be made from banks in any amount up to 5% of the total asset
value.
2. Buy any securities on "margin" or sell any securities "short," except that
it may use such short-term credits as are necessary for the clearance of
transactions.
3. Make loans, except through the purchase of readily marketable debt
securities which are either publicly distributed or customarily purchased by
institutional investors. Although such loans are not presently intended, this
prohibition will not preclude the fund from loaning portfolio securities to
broker-dealers or other institutional investors if at least 102% cash
collateral is pledged and maintained by the borrower; provided such portfolio
security loans may not be made if, as a result, the aggregate of such loans
exceeds 10% of the value of the fund's total assets at the time of the most
recent loan.
4. Act as underwriter of securities issued by other persons, except insofar
as the fund may be technically deemed an underwriter under the federal
securities laws in connection with the disposition of portfolio securities.
5. Purchase the securities of any issuer which would result in owning more
than 10% of the voting securities of such issuer, except with respect to the
Connecticut and Federal Intermediate Funds, each of which will not purchase a
security, if as a result: i) more than 25% of its total assets would be
invested in the securities of a single issuer or ii) with respect to 50% of
its total assets, more than 5% of its assets would be invested in the
securities of a single issuer.
6. Purchase securities from or sell to the trust's officers and trustees, or
any firm of which any officer or trustee is a member, as principal, or retain
securities of any issuer if, to the knowledge of the trust, one or more of
the trust's officers, trustees, or investment manager own beneficially more
than one-half of 1% of the securities of such issuer and all such officers
and trustees together own beneficially more than 5% of such securities.
7. Acquire, lease or hold real estate, except such as may be necessary or
advisable for the maintenance of its offices and provided that this
limitation shall not prohibit the purchase of municipal and other debt
securities secured by real estate or interests therein.
8. Invest in commodities and commodity contracts, puts, calls, straddles,
spreads or any combination thereof, or interests in oil, gas, or other
mineral exploration or development programs, except that it may purchase,
hold and dispose of "obligations with puts attached" in accordance with its
investment policies.
9. Invest in companies for the purpose of exercising control or management.
10. For each fund except the Federal Intermediate Fund, purchase securities
of other investment companies, except in connection with a merger,
consolidation or reorganization, except to the extent the fund invests its
uninvested daily cash balances in shares of the Franklin Tax-Exempt Money
Fund and other tax-exempt money market funds in the Franklin Templeton Group
of Funds provided i) its purchases and redemptions of such money market fund
shares may not be subject to any purchase or redemption fees, ii) its
investments may not be subject to duplication of management fees, nor to any
charge related to the expense of distributing the fund's shares (as
determined under Rule 12b-1, as amended under the federal securities laws)
and iii) aggregate investments by the fund in any such money market fund do
not exceed (A) the greater of (i) 5% of the fund's total net assets or (ii)
$2.5 million, or (B) more than 3% of the outstanding shares of any such money
market fund.
11. For each fund except the Federal Intermediate Fund, invest more than 25%
of its assets in securities of any industry; although for purposes of this
limitation, tax-exempt securities and U.S. government obligations are not
considered to be part of any industry.
The following investment restrictions only apply to the Federal Intermediate
Fund:
12. Purchase securities of other investment companies, except in connection
with a merger, consolidation, acquisition or reorganization. To the extent
permitted by exemptions which may be granted under the Investment Company Act
of 1940, the Federal Intermediate Fund may invest in shares of one or more
investment companies, of the type generally referred to as money market
funds, managed by Franklin Advisers, Inc. or its affiliates.
13. Purchase securities, in private placements or in other transactions, for
which there are legal or contractual restrictions on resale.
14. Invest more than 25% of its assets in securities of any industry. For
purposes of this limitation, tax-exempt securities issued by governments or
political subdivisions of governments are not considered to be part of any
industry.
If a bankruptcy or other extraordinary event occurs concerning a particular
security the fund owns, the fund may receive stock, real estate, or other
investments that the fund would not, or could not, buy. If this happens, the
fund intends to sell such investments as soon as practicable while maximizing
the return to shareholders.
If a percentage restriction is met at the time of investment, a later
increase or decrease in the percentage due to a change in the value or
liquidity of portfolio securities or the amount of assets will not be
considered a violation of any of the foregoing restrictions.
RISKS
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STATE Since each state fund mainly invests in the municipal securities of its
state, its performance is closely tied to the ability of issuers of municipal
securities in its state to continue to make principal and interest payments
on their securities. The issuers' ability to do this is in turn dependent on
economic, political and other conditions within the state. Below is a
discussion of certain conditions that may affect municipal issuers in the
funds' various states. It is not a complete analysis of every material fact
that may affect the ability of issuers of municipal securities to meet their
debt obligations or the economic or political conditions within any state and
is subject to change. The information below is based on data available to the
funds from historically reliable sources, but the funds have not
independently verified it.
The ability of issuers of municipal securities to continue to make principal
and interest payments is dependent in large part on their ability to raise
revenues, primarily through taxes, and to control spending. Many factors can
affect a state's revenues including the rate of population growth,
unemployment rates, personal income growth, federal aid, and the ability to
attract and keep successful businesses. A number of factors can also affect a
state's spending including current debt levels, and the existence of
accumulated budget deficits. The following provides some information on these
and other factors.
ARIZONA. A cost of living below the national average and competitive wage
rates have attracted people and businesses to Arizona, especially from
California. As a result, Arizona's population grew by more than 15% during
the first half of the 1990s. Although population growth is expected to remain
strong, the rate of growth has slowed since 1996 as a result of California's
economic recovery and thus less migration from that state. Employment growth
has also been strong, at 5.6% in 1996. Driven recently by gains in the
high-tech manufacturing sector, employment growth is expected to remain solid
over the near-term. Unemployment was 4.7% in May 1997, slightly less than the
national average.
Arizona's economy has continued its shift away from agriculture and mining
and towards manufacturing and services. The move away from farming, which
generally consumes about 80% of the water used in the state, may increase the
water available for municipal uses. As of July 1997, manufacturing accounted
for approximately 9.3% of the state's total employment, trade 23%, services
30%, government 13%, construction 6% and finance, insurance and real estate
8%.
Under its constitution, Arizona is not allowed to issue general obligation
debt. Thus, gross state debt levels have remained moderate. The state has
historically relied on lease obligations, revenue bonds, and pay-as-you-go
financing for its capital needs. A significant portion of the state's debt
has been supported by motor fuel taxes and highway user fees.
Recently, Arizona's strong economic growth has enabled the state to replenish
its general fund, while at the same time cutting taxes. At the end of fiscal
1996, the general fund had a balance of 12.6% of expenditures, up from 6.9%
at the end of fiscal 1995. Due to higher-than-anticipated income tax
receipts, the state expects the general fund balance will remain strong
through fiscal 1998. In addition, the state's budget stabilization fund held
$252 million as of July 1997, which may help provide protection in an
economic downturn.
Despite periods of financial stress during the 1980s and early 1990s, the
state's financial outlook is generally considered stable.
COLORADO. During the 1980s, Colorado's economy was dependent on its energy
sector. As a result, the state suffered a sharp economic downturn when the
energy sector declined in the mid-to-late 1980s. Since 1991, growth in the
services, trade and government sectors has improved Colorado's economic
diversification. Growth in these areas, as well as in construction and high
technology sectors, has also helped to offset job losses caused by military
base closings and the decline of the state's mining industry. Population and
income levels have also grown since 1991, often exceeding national trends,
and unemployment levels have been below the national average. As of June
1997, S&P expected this growth to continue, although at a slower rate.
The recent strength of Colorado's economy has helped to improve the state's
financial position. Revenue growth has continued to exceed projections,
primarily in the area of income tax collections. Since Colorado's
constitution prohibits the issuance of general obligation debt, the state's
debt burden has been low. The state has relied primarily on pay-as-you-go and
lease financing to meet its capital improvement needs.
Colorado's relatively strong economy and improved financial position,
together with its relatively low debt ratios, should help its credit quality
remain stable.
CONNECTICUT. Connecticut has been slower to recover from the national
recession of the early 1990s than most other states. In recent years,
however, Connecticut has begun to show some signs of progress.
For the first time in several years, the state's population grew in 1996,
although by a modest 0.1%. For the twelve months ended August 1997, non-farm
employment grew by 1.8%, led by growth in wholesale and retail trade,
services, construction and government. The state's tourism industry has also
grown steadily due to the state's growing casino industry. Furthermore, the
state has recently been successful in attracting businesses to the state from
New York City due to tax incentives and lower office rents. Future growth is
expected to come from the areas of business services, media and
communications, and biopharmaceuticals. While Connecticut has yet to reach
prerecession employment levels, it has remained the richest state in the U.S.
with per capita income at 137% of the national average as of October 1997.
Recent unemployment rates have also compared favorably to the nation.
As of October 1997, the state expected to end fiscal 1997 with a general fund
surplus of $255 million, its sixth consecutive surplus since its $809 million
deficit in fiscal 1991. Debt levels have remained high, however, although
annual general obligation bond issuance has declined since the early 1990s.
The state's high debt levels could affect its future financial flexibility.
With projections of slow economic growth through the year 2000 and the
implementation of planned tax cuts, Connecticut may face challenges as it
attempts to maintain balanced operations.
INDIANA. Indiana's economy has been relatively volatile, with cyclical tax
and employment bases. During the early to mid-1980s, the state's economy was
heavily dependent on its historically dominant manufacturing sector,
particularly the steel and automobile sectors. This dependence on durable
manufacturing led to increased economic volatility during the first half of
the 1980s. Companies within Indiana's manufacturing sector have been
downsizing and restructuring over the past 15 years, which may help reduce
Indiana's vulnerability to manufacturing-based recessions. Nonetheless,
Indiana's manufacturing sector recently accounted for 23% of the labor force,
the second highest percentage among the fifty states.
During the last four years, Indiana's income and employment growth has
exceeded most other states in the Great Lakes region. Indiana's important
manufacturing sector has also experienced positive growth in recent years,
helping to support growth in the trade and service sectors. Its central
location, competitive cost of living and business costs, and extensive
transportation network have combined to make Indiana a low-cost alternative
for various service and back-office operations. Airport expansion projects
and the construction of a $1 billion United Airlines maintenance facility
have contributed to the emergence of Indiana as a transportation and
distribution hub.
The recent strength of Indiana's economy and aggressive spending cuts have
resulted in four consecutive years of operating surpluses. As of June 30,
1997, the state's total balances were $1.8 billion, which ranked it among the
strongest states nationally. This compared favorably to total balances of
$670 million at June 30, 1993.
While the state's economy and financial performance have been strong, the
unfunded liability of the State Teachers Retirement Fund has continued to
grow. Recently, this liability was as high as $7 billion. Indiana has taken
several steps to attempt to control this problem, including (i) enacting a
new pension plan that requires funds to be set aside for new teachers as
their benefits are accrued, which also shifts primary funding responsibility
from the state to the local school districts, and (ii) creating a special
pension stabilization fund to pay teachers' pensions when the growth in
pension payouts in a year exceeds the state's revenue growth.
MICHIGAN. Michigan's economy has continued to rely on national economic
trends, especially the demand for durable goods. Its economic base has been
dependent on its manufacturing sector, which recently accounted for 33% of
the state's total personal income. While this sector has been strong since
the end of the national recession in the early 1990s, the state's reliance on
manufacturing has made its economy potentially more volatile than the
economies of more diverse states. In recent years, however, the state has
made some improvements in the diversity of its economy.
Michigan's finances have also improved since the early 1990s when the state's
financial position was weakened by the national recession and imbalances in
the budget. Tighter budget controls and the positive effect on revenues of
the state's relatively strong economy have allowed the state to replenish
reserves, which had been severely depleted during the early 1990s. The
state's budget stabilization fund was estimated at more than $1.2 billion at
September 30, 1997. Michigan may need the increased stability these reserve
levels provide to offset higher school funding requirements, which were
estimated at $8.6 billion in fiscal 1997 and represented the largest expense
item for the state.
NEW JERSEY. New Jersey's economy has historically been one of the most
diverse in the nation. Recent economic growth has been slower than the
national average, however, by most measures. The state recently recovered its
job losses from the recession of the early 1990s, when the state experienced
extensive layoffs in manufacturing and construction leading to the
elimination of 6.3% of the state's jobs. Recent growth has been strongest in
the service and trade sectors, while manufacturing has continued to decline.
Some of the largest commercial and industrial firms in the U.S. are
headquartered in New Jersey, as its lower taxes and other business costs make
it an attractive alternative to New York City. While personal income growth
has been slower than at the national level, New Jersey has remained one of
the wealthiest states, recently ranking second in per capita income to
Connecticut.
The state's financial position has benefited from the underlying health of
New Jersey's economy, which has resulted in increased corporate business and
personal income tax receipts. The state ended fiscal 1997 with a surplus and
an undesignated fund balance of $1 billion, although the state anticipates
using part of this balance to fund fiscal 1998 operations. While the state's
expenditures have been restrained, nonrecurring revenues and budget surpluses
have been needed to balance budgets in recent years. Together with the need
to fund its 30% reduction in personal income taxes, the state may face future
fiscal challenges, especially if its economy does not continue to grow at a
relatively healthy rate.
OREGON. In recent years, Oregon's rates of growth in per capita income,
population and employment have all exceeded the national average. The state's
economy has continued to diversify, with less dependence on the timber
industry and more emphasis on services. Recently, the service sector
accounted for 26.1% of total non-farm employment and much of the state's
employment growth. Pacific Rim trade, hi-tech manufacturing, especially
semiconductors, and housing construction spurred by significant immigration,
primarily from California, have also contributed to the state's growth.
Oregon's growth is expected to continue, although at a slower pace. Future
growth is likely to be dependent on the continued strength of the national
economy, as well as the strength of the state's hi-tech industries. Economic
growth may be hampered, however, by an improving economy in California, as
well as Oregon's rising labor and housing costs.
The strength of Oregon's economy has helped the state maintain positive
financial results. Recently, however, voter initiatives have limited the
state's financial flexibility.
In November 1990, voters approved Measure 5, which limited local property
taxes and required the state to provide replacement revenues to schools. The
replacement requirement was $492 million in the 1991-1993 biennium and rose
to $2.7 billion for the fiscal 1995-1997 biennium. Nonetheless, the state has
been able to meet this obligation and balance its budget without implementing
a large new revenue source, primarily due to rapid growth in revenues
resulting from the state's growing economy and strong fiscal oversight.
On May 20, 1997, voters passed ballot measure 50, which replaced ballot
measure 47. Ballot measure 50 could negatively impact the revenue-raising
flexibility of many municipal entities in Oregon. The state may also be
negatively affected as this measure requires the state to indemnify school
districts from the impact of property tax cuts.
As of September 1997, the state had estimated that it would end fiscal 1997
with a budget balance of more than $700 million. New capital programs,
especially for correction facilities, and the uncertain effects on state and
local governments of Measure 50, however, may create future challenges as the
state attempts to maintain positive financial performance. The increased use
of ballot initiatives, in many cases to reduce taxes and thus limit financial
flexibility, may also create greater uncertainty in Oregon's municipal
securities market. This increased uncertainty may lead to a demand by
investors for higher yields on obligations issued within the state, and thus
an increase in borrowing costs for issuers.
PENNSYLVANIA. Pennsylvania's economic base has been diverse, although it has
also been highly cyclical. The largest growth areas have been business,
health care, and consumer services. Growth in these areas have helped to
offset declines in the manufacturing, mining, and federal government sectors.
Overall, employment growth has been slower than the national level, at 5.7%
since 1989 compared to the national average of 13.3%.
Pennsylvania's governor has recently made economic development a priority. To
attract new business, the state has implemented various business tax cuts and
has attempted to ease the state's regulatory environment. These steps,
together with the state's strong education, health care and transportation
systems, could help to provide a positive environment for attracting
businesses.
Pennsylvania's financial performance has been historically tied to
fluctuations in both national and regional economic trends. For fiscal 1997,
improvements in the state's economy and higher-than-expected tax revenues
helped strengthen the state's financial position. The state ended fiscal 1997
with an operating surplus of more than $400 million. Relative to the size of
the budget, the state's reserves nonetheless have remained relatively small.
Due to the cyclical nature of the state's economy and financial performance,
the state's small reserves do not provide much security against future
economic downturns or other uncertainties that could affect the state.
Additionally, the state may need to address some outstanding and potentially
costly litigation issues over the next several years, including possible
changes in the funding of the state's school system and the state's judicial
system.
U.S. TERRITORIES Since each fund may invest a portion of its assets in
municipal securities issued by U.S. territories, and the Puerto Rico Fund
invests mainly in Puerto Rico municipal securities, the ability of municipal
issuers in U.S. territories to continue to make principal and interest
payments also may affect a fund's performance. As with state municipal
issuers, the ability to make these payments is dependent on economic,
political and other conditions. Below is a discussion of certain conditions
within some of the territories where the funds may be invested. It is not a
complete analysis of every material fact that may affect the ability of
issuers of U.S. territory municipal securities to meet their debt obligations
or the economic or political conditions within the territories and is subject
to change. It is based on data available to the funds from historically
reliable sources, but it has not been independently verified by the funds.
GUAM. Guam's economy has been heavily dependent on its tourism industry,
which accounted for almost 40% of total employment in 1997. It has been
especially dependent on Japanese tourism, which has made Guam vulnerable to
fluctuations in the relationship between the U.S. dollar and the Japanese yen.
In the early to mid-1990s, Guam's financial position deteriorated due to a
series of natural disasters that led to increased spending on top of already
significant budget gaps. As a result, the government introduced a
comprehensive financial plan in June 1995 to help balance the budget and
reduce the general fund deficit by fiscal 1999. As of fiscal 1997, the
deficit had improved and the budget was balanced.
While Guam's debt burden has been manageable, Guam's ability to maintain
current debt levels may be challenged in the near future. U.S. military
downsizing has reduced the federal presence on the island and also may reduce
federal support for infrastructure projects. At the same time, Guam has faced
increasing pressure to improve its infrastructure to help generate economic
development.
Overall, as of October 1997, S&P's outlook for Guam was negative due to
Guam's continued weak financial position and the need for continued political
support towards the goals of the financial plan.
MARIANA ISLANDS. The Mariana Islands became a commonwealth in 1975. At that
time, the U.S. government agreed to exempt the islands from federal minimum
wage and immigration laws in an effort to help stimulate industry and the
economy. The islands' minimum wage has been more than $2 per hour below the
U.S. level and tens of thousands of workers have immigrated from various
Asian countries to provide cheap labor for the islands' industries. Recently,
the islands' tourism and apparel industries combined to help increase gross
business receipts from $224 million in 1985 to $2 billion in 1996.
PUERTO RICO. Overall, Moody's considered Puerto Rico's outlook stable as of
January 1999. In recent years, Puerto Rico's financial performance has
improved. Relatively strong revenue growth and more aggressive tax collection
procedures resulted in a general fund surplus for fiscal 1998 (unaudited).
For fiscal 1999, spending increases of 11% are budgeted, which may create an
operating deficit and deplete the commonwealth's unreserved fund balance.
Puerto Rico's debt levels have been high. Going forward, these levels may
increase as Puerto Rico attempts to finance significant capital and
infrastructure improvements. Puerto Rico will also need to address its large
unfunded pension liability of more than $6 billion.
Despite Puerto Rico's stable outlook, Puerto Rico may face challenges in the
coming years with the 1996 passage of a bill eliminating section 936 of the
Internal Revenue Code. This section has given certain U.S. corporations
operating in Puerto Rico significant tax advantages. These incentives have
helped considerably with Puerto Rico's economic growth, especially with the
development of its manufacturing sector. U.S. firms that have benefited from
these incentives have provided a significant portion of Puerto Rico's
revenues, employment and deposits in local financial institutions. The
section 936 incentives will be phased out over a 10-year period ending in
2006. It is hoped that this long phase-out period will give Puerto Rico
sufficient time to lessen the potentially negative effects of section 936's
elimination. Outstanding issues relating to the potential for a transition to
statehood also may have broad implications for Puerto Rico and its financial
and credit position.
CREDIT (HIGH YIELD FUND ONLY) Since the High Yield Fund may invest in
municipal securities rated below investment grade, an investment in the fund
is subject to a higher degree of risk than an investment in a fund that
invests primarily in higher-quality securities.
The market value of high yield, lower-quality municipal securities, commonly
known as junk bonds, tends to reflect individual developments affecting the
issuer to a greater degree than the market value of higher-quality
securities, which react primarily to fluctuations in the general level of
interest rates. Lower-quality securities also tend to be more sensitive to
economic conditions than higher-quality securities. Factors adversely
affecting the market value of high yield securities may lower the fund's net
asset value and affect its performance.
Projects financed by high yield municipal securities are often highly
leveraged and may not have more traditional methods of financing available to
them. Therefore, the risk associated with buying these securities is
generally greater than the risk associated with higher-quality securities.
For example, during an economic downturn or a sustained period of rising
interest rates, projects financed by lower-quality securities may experience
financial stress and may not have sufficient cash flow to make interest
payments. The issuer's ability to make timely interest and principal payments
also may be adversely affected by specific developments affecting the issuer,
including the issuer's inability to meet specific projected revenue forecasts
or the unavailability of additional financing.
The risk of loss due to default also may be considerably greater with
lower-quality securities. If the issuer of a security in the fund's portfolio
defaults, the fund may have unrealized losses on the security, which may
lower the fund's net asset value. Defaulted securities tend to lose much of
their value before they default. Thus, the fund's net asset value may be
adversely affected before an issuer defaults. In addition, the fund may incur
additional expenses if it must try to recover principal or interest payments
on a defaulted security.
Lower-quality securities may not be as liquid as higher-quality securities.
Reduced liquidity in the secondary market may have an adverse impact on the
market price of a security and on the fund's ability to sell a security in
response to a specific economic event, such as a deterioration in the
creditworthiness of the issuer, or if necessary to meet the fund's liquidity
needs. Reduced liquidity also may make it more difficult to obtain market
quotations based on actual trades for purposes of valuing the fund's
portfolio.
The following table provides a summary of the credit quality of the High
Yield Fund's portfolio. These figures are dollar-weighted averages of
month-end assets during the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999.
S&P RATING AVERAGE WEIGHTED PERCENTAGE OF
ASSETS (%)
- ----------------------------------------------------------
AAA 24.01
AA 2.2
A 8.52
BBB 20.63
BB 27.34
B 8.75
CCC 1.2
Not Rated 7.56
1. 9.2% are unrated and have been included in the AAA rating category.
2. 0.4% are unrated and have been included in the A rating category.
3. 7.1% are unrated and have been included in the BBB rating category.
4. 15.8% are unrated and have been included in the BB rating category.
5. 1.1% are unrated and have been included in the B rating category.
6. This figure includes securities that have not been rated by S&P but that
have been rated by another rating agency.
OFFICERS AND TRUSTEES
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The trust has a board of trustees. The board is responsible for the overall
management of the trust, including general supervision and review of each
fund's investment activities. The board, in turn, elects the officers of the
trust who are responsible for administering the trust's day-to-day
operations. The board also monitors each fund to ensure no material conflicts
exist among share classes. While none is expected, the board will act
appropriately to resolve any material conflict that may arise.
The name, age and address of the officers and board members, as well as their
affiliations, positions held with the trust, and principal occupations during
the past five years are shown below.
Frank H. Abbott, III (78)
1045 Sansome Street, San Francisco, CA 94111
TRUSTEE
President and Director, Abbott Corporation (an investment company); director
or trustee, as the case may be, of 27 of the investment companies in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY, Director, MotherLode Gold
Mines Consolidated (gold mining) and Vacu-Dry Co. (food processing).
Harris J. Ashton (67)
191 Clapboard Ridge Road, Greenwich, CT 06830
TRUSTEE
Director, RBC Holdings, Inc. (bank holding company) and Bar-S Foods (meat
packing company); director or trustee, as the case may be, of 48 of the
investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY,
President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, General Host
Corporation (nursery and craft centers).
S. Joseph Fortunato (66)
Park Avenue at Morris County, P.O. Box 1945
Morristown, NJ 07962-1945
TRUSTEE
Member of the law firm of Pitney, Hardin, Kipp & Szuch; director or trustee,
as the case may be, of 50 of the investment companies in the Franklin
Templeton Group of Funds.
Edith E. Holiday (47)
3239 38th Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20016
TRUSTEE
Director, Amerada Hess Corporation (exploration and refining of natural gas)
(1993-present), Hercules Incorporated (chemicals, fibers and resins)
(1993-present), Beverly Enterprises, Inc. (health care) (1995-present) and
H.J. Heinz Company (processed foods and allied products) (1994-present);
director or trustee, as the case may be, of 24 of the investment companies in
the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY, Chairman (1995-1997) and
Trustee (1993-1997), National Child Research Center, Assistant to the
President of the United States and Secretary of the Cabinet (1990-1993),
General Counsel to the United States Treasury Department (1989-1990), and
Counselor to the Secretary and Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs and
Public Liaison-United States Treasury Department (1988-1989).
*Charles B. Johnson (66)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND TRUSTEE
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc.;
Chairman of the Board and Director, Franklin Advisers, Inc., Franklin
Investment Advisory Services, Inc. and Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc.;
Director, Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc. and Franklin Templeton
Services, Inc.; officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of
most of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 49 of the
investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
*Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. (58)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
PRESIDENT AND TRUSTEE
Executive Vice President and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc. and Franklin
Templeton Distributors, Inc.; President and Director, Franklin Advisers, Inc.
and Franklin Investment Advisory Services, Inc.; Senior Vice President,
Franklin Advisory Services, LLC; Director, Franklin/Templeton Investor
Services, Inc.; and officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be,
of most of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 52 of
the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Frank W.T. LaHaye (70)
20833 Stevens Creek Blvd., Suite 102, Cupertino, CA 95014
TRUSTEE
General Partner, Miller & LaHaye, which is the General Partner of Peregrine
Ventures II (venture capital firm); director or trustee, as the case may be,
of 27 of the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds;
and FORMERLY, Director, Fischer Imaging Corporation (medical imaging
systems), Digital Transmission Systems, Inc. (wireless communications) and
Quarterdeck Corporation (software firm), and General Partner, Peregrine
Associates, which was the General Partner of Peregrine Ventures (venture
capital firm).
Gordon S. Macklin (70)
8212 Burning Tree Road, Bethesda, MD 20817
TRUSTEE
Director, Fund American Enterprises Holdings, Inc. (holding company), Martek
Biosciences Corporation, MCI WorldCom (information services), MedImmune, Inc.
(biotechnology), Spacehab, Inc. (aerospace services) and Real 3D (software);
director or trustee, as the case may be, of 48 of the investment companies in
the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY, Chairman, White River
Corporation (financial services) and Hambrecht and Quist Group (investment
banking), and President, National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
Harmon E. Burns (54)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT
Executive Vice President and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc., Franklin
Templeton Distributors, Inc. and Franklin Templeton Services, Inc.; Executive
Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Director, Franklin Investment
Advisory Services, Inc. and Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc.; and
officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of most of the other
subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of 52 of the investment
companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Martin L. Flanagan (39)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Franklin Resources, Inc.,
Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc. and Franklin Mutual Advisers, LLC;
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Director, Templeton
Worldwide, Inc.; Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and
Director, Templeton Investment Counsel, Inc.; Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Chief Financial Officer,
Franklin Advisory Services, LLC and Franklin Investment Advisory Services,
Inc.; President and Director, Franklin Templeton Services, Inc.; officer
and/or director of some of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources,
Inc.; and officer and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of 52 of
the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Deborah R. Gatzek (50)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT AND SECRETARY
Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Franklin Resources, Inc.; Senior
Vice President, Franklin Templeton Services, Inc. and Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc.; Executive Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Vice
President, Franklin Advisory Services, LLC and Franklin Mutual Advisers, LLC;
Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Chief Operating Officer, Franklin
Investment Advisory Services, Inc.; and officer of 53 of the investment
companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Thomas J. Kenny (36)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT
Executive Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; and officer of eight of
the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Diomedes Loo-Tam (60)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
TREASURER AND PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING OFFICER
Senior Vice President, Franklin Templeton Services, Inc.; and officer of 32
of the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Edward V. McVey (61)
777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404
VICE PRESIDENT
Senior Vice President and National Sales Manager, Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc.; and officer of 28 of the investment companies in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
*This board member is considered an "interested person" under federal
securities laws.
Note: Charles B. Johnson and Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. are brothers.
The trust pays noninterested board members $1,450 per month plus $1,300 per
meeting attended. Board members who serve on the audit committee of the trust
and other funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds receive a flat fee
of $2,000 per committee meeting attended, a portion of which is allocated to
the trust. Members of a committee are not compensated for any committee
meeting held on the day of a board meeting. Noninterested board members also
may serve as directors or trustees of other funds in the Franklin Templeton
Group of Funds and may receive fees from these funds for their services.
NUMBER OF BOARDS
TOTAL FEES TOTAL FEES IN THE FRANKLIN
RECEIVED RECEIVED FROM TEMPLETON GROUP
FROM THE THE FRANKLIN OF FUNDS ON
NAME TRUST1 TEMPLETON GROUP WHICH EACH
OF FUNDS2 Serves3
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Frank H. Abbott, III $25,675 $159,051 27
Harris J. Ashton $26,390 361,157 48
S. Joseph Fortunato $25,097 367,835 50
Edith E. Holiday $28,650 211,400 24
Frank W.T. LaHaye $26,975 163,753 27
Gordon S. Macklin $26,390 361,157 48
1. For the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999. During the period from
February 28, 1998, through May 31, 1998, fees at the rate of $1,300 per month
plus $1,300 per board meeting attended were in effect.
2. For the calendar year ended December 31, 1999.
3. We base the number of boards on the number of registered investment
companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. This number does not
include the total number of series or funds within each investment company
for which the board members are responsible. The Franklin Templeton Group of
Funds currently includes 54 registered investment companies, with
approximately 163 U.S. based funds or series.
Noninterested board members are reimbursed for expenses incurred in
connection with attending board meetings, paid pro rata by each fund in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds for which they serve as director or
trustee. No officer or board member received any other compensation,
including pension or retirement benefits, directly or indirectly from the
fund or other funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Certain
officers or board members who are shareholders of Franklin Resources, Inc.
may be deemed to receive indirect remuneration by virtue of their
participation, if any, in the fees paid to its subsidiaries.
Board members historically have followed a policy of having substantial
investments in one or more of the funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of
Funds, as is consistent with their individual financial goals. In February
1998, this policy was formalized through adoption of a requirement that each
board member invest one-third of fees received for serving as a director or
trustee of a Templeton fund in shares of one or more Templeton funds and
one-third of fees received for serving as a director or trustee of a Franklin
fund in shares of one or more Franklin funds until the value of such
investments equals or exceeds five times the annual fees paid such board
member. Investments in the name of family members or entities controlled by a
board member constitute fund holdings of such board member for purposes of
this policy, and a three year phase-in period applies to such investment
requirements for newly elected board members. In implementing such policy, a
board member's fund holdings existing on February 27, 1998, are valued as of
such date with subsequent investments valued at cost.
MANAGEMENT AND OTHER SERVICES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MANAGER AND SERVICES PROVIDED The fund's manager is Franklin Advisers,
Inc.The manager is a wholly owned subsidiary of Franklin Resources, Inc.
(Resources), a publicly owned company engaged in the financial services
industry through its subsidiaries. Charles B. Johnson and Rupert H. Johnson,
Jr. are the principal shareholders of Resources.
The manager provides investment research and portfolio management services,
and selects the securities for the fund to buy, hold or sell. The manager's
extensive research activities include, as appropriate, traveling to meet with
issuers and to review project sites. The manager also selects the brokers who
execute the fund's portfolio transactions. The manager provides periodic
reports to the board, which reviews and supervises the manager's investment
activities. To protect the fund, the manager and its officers, directors and
employees are covered by fidelity insurance.
The manager and its affiliates manage numerous other investment companies and
accounts. The manager may give advice and take action with respect to any of
the other funds it manages, or for its own account, that may differ from
action taken by the manager on behalf of the fund. Similarly, with respect to
the fund, the manager is not obligated to recommend, buy or sell, or to
refrain from recommending, buying or selling any security that the manager
and access persons, as defined by applicable federal securities laws, may buy
or sell for its or their own account or for the accounts of any other fund.
The manager is not obligated to refrain from investing in securities held by
the fund or other funds it manages. Of course, any transactions for the
accounts of the manager and other access persons will be made in compliance
with the fund's code of ethics.
Under the fund's code of ethics, employees of the Franklin Templeton Group
who are access persons may engage in personal securities transactions subject
to the following general restrictions and procedures: (i) the trade must
receive advance clearance from a compliance officer and must be completed by
the close of the business day following the day clearance is granted; (ii)
copies of all brokerage confirmations and statements must be sent to a
compliance officer; (iii) all brokerage accounts must be disclosed on an
annual basis; and (iv) access persons involved in preparing and making
investment decisions must, in addition to (i), (ii) and (iii) above, file
annual reports of their securities holdings each January and inform the
compliance officer (or other designated personnel) if they own a security
that is being considered for a fund or other client transaction or if they
are recommending a security in which they have an ownership interest for
purchase or sale by a fund or other client.
MANAGEMENT FEES The fund pays the manager a fee equal to a monthly rate of:
o 5/96 of 1% of the value of net assets up to and including $100 million;
o 1/24 of 1% of the value of net assets over $100 million and not over
$250 million; and
o 9/240 of 1% of the value of net assets in excess of $250 million.
The fee is computed at the close of business on the last business day of each
month according to the terms of the management agreement. Each class of the
fund's shares pays its proportionate share of the fee.
For the last three fiscal years ended February 28, the manager paid the
following management fees:
MANAGEMENT FEES PAID ($)
1999 1998 1997
- -------------------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund 4,124,084 3,799,811 3,627,685
Colorado Fund 1,615,981 1,432,605 1,259,548
Connecticut Fund 1,313,337 1,126,660 1,012,114
Federal Intermediate 901,601 628,115 438,843
Fund1 29,382,074 24,164,69 119,114,157
High Yield Fund 357,518 330,541 311,799
Indiana Fund 0 0 0
Michigan Fund1 3,411,855 3,074,915 2,827,318
New Jersey Fund 2,429,095 2,119,137 1,964,313
Oregon Fund 3,734,742 3,414,301 3,181,417
Pennsylvania Fund 1,223,542 1,137,320 1,083,818
Puerto Rico Fund
1. Management fees, before any advance waiver, totaled $959,067, $718,091,
and $586,461, respectively for the Federal Intermediate Fund. Management
fees, before any advance waiver, totaled $82,747, $44,302, and $12,802,
respectively for the Michigan Fund. Under an agreement by the manager to
limit its fees, the fund paid the management fees shown.
ADMINISTRATOR AND SERVICES PROVIDED Franklin Templeton Services, Inc. (FT
Services) has an agreement with the manager to provide certain administrative
services and facilities for the fund. FT Services is wholly owned by
Resources and is an affiliate of the fund's manager and principal
underwriter.
The administrative services FT Services provides include preparing and
maintaining books, records, and tax and financial reports, and monitoring
compliance with regulatory requirements.
ADMINISTRATION FEES The manager pays FT Services a monthly fee equal to an
annual rate of:
o 0.15% of the fund's average daily net assets up to $200 million;
o 0.135% of average daily net assets over $200 million up to $700 million;
o 0.10% of average daily net assets over $700 million up to $1.2 billion;
and
o 0.075% of average daily net assets over $1.2 billion.
During the last three fiscal years ended February 28, the fund paid FT
Services the following administration fees:
ADMINISTRATION FEES PAID ($)
1999 1998 1997
- -------------------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund 1,122,536 1,060,456 430,330
Colorado Fund 427,270 383,050 144,807
Connecticut Fund 275,695 298,352 114,062
Federal Intermediate 231,154 176,069 62,460
Fund1 5,342,854 4,519,848 1,626,344
High Yield Fund 84,275 79,053 31,765
Indiana Fund 17,316 10,328 2,069
Michigan Fund1 957,124 872,308 339,343
New Jersey Fund 661,993 587,736 229,705
Oregon Fund 1,035,927 971,653 384,008
Pennsylvania Fund 322,664 301,686 120,593
Puerto Rico Fund
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AND TRANSFER AGENT Franklin/Templeton Investor
Services, Inc. (Investor Services) is the fund's shareholder servicing agent
and acts as the fund's transfer agent and dividend-paying agent. Investor
Services is located at 777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404. Please
send all correspondence to Investor Services to P.O. Box 997151, Sacramento,
CA 95899-9983.
For its services, Investor Services receives a fixed fee per account. The
fund also will reimburse Investor Services for certain out-of-pocket
expenses, which may include payments by Investor Services to entities,
including affiliated entities, that provide sub-shareholder services,
recordkeeping and/or transfer agency services to beneficial owners of the
fund. The amount of reimbursements for these services per benefit plan
participant fund account per year will not exceed the per account fee payable
by the fund to Investor Services in connection with maintaining shareholder
accounts.
CUSTODIAN Bank of New York, Mutual Funds Division, 90 Washington Street, New
York, NY 10286, acts as custodian of the fund's securities and other assets.
AUDITOR PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 333 Market Street, San Francisco, CA
94105, is the fund's independent auditor. The auditor gives an opinion on the
financial statements included in the trust's Annual Report to Shareholders
and reviews the trust's registration statement filed with the U.S. Securities
and Exchange Commission (SEC).
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since most purchases by the fund are principal transactions at net prices,
the fund incurs little or no brokerage costs. The fund deals directly with
the selling or buying principal or market maker without incurring charges for
the services of a broker on its behalf, unless it is determined that a better
price or execution may be obtained by using the services of a broker.
Purchases of portfolio securities from underwriters will include a commission
or concession paid by the issuer to the underwriter, and purchases from
dealers will include a spread between the bid and ask prices. As a general
rule, the fund does not buy securities in underwritings where it is given no
choice, or only limited choice, in the designation of dealers to receive the
commission. The fund seeks to obtain prompt execution of orders at the most
favorable net price. Transactions may be directed to dealers in return for
research and statistical information, as well as for special services
provided by the dealers in the execution of orders.
It is not possible to place a dollar value on the special executions or on
the research services the manager receives from dealers effecting
transactions in portfolio securities. The allocation of transactions in order
to obtain additional research services allows the manager to supplement its
own research and analysis activities and to receive the views and information
of individuals and research staffs of other securities firms. As long as it
is lawful and appropriate to do so, the manager and its affiliates may use
this research and data in their investment advisory capacities with other
clients. If the fund's officers are satisfied that the best execution is
obtained, the sale of fund shares, as well as shares of other funds in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds, also may be considered a factor in the
selection of broker-dealers to execute the fund's portfolio transactions.
If purchases or sales of securities of the fund and one or more other
investment companies or clients supervised by the manager are considered at
or about the same time, transactions in these securities will be allocated
among the several investment companies and clients in a manner deemed
equitable to all by the manager, taking into account the respective sizes of
the funds and the amount of securities to be purchased or sold. In some cases
this procedure could have a detrimental effect on the price or volume of the
security so far as the fund is concerned. In other cases it is possible that
the ability to participate in volume transactions may improve execution and
reduce transaction costs to the funds.
As of February 28, 1999, the fund did not own securities of its regular
broker-dealers.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The funds calculate dividends and capital gains the same way for each class.
The amount of any income dividends per share will differ, however, generally
due to the difference in the distribution and service (Rule 12b-1) fees of
each class. The funds does not pay "interest" or guarantee any fixed rate of
return on an investment in its shares.
DISTRIBUTIONS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME By meeting certain requirements of
the Internal Revenue Code, the funds have qualified and continue to qualify
to pay exempt-interest dividends to you. These dividends are derived from
interest income exempt from regular federal income tax, and are not subject
to regular federal income tax when they are distributed to you. In addition,
to the extent that exempt-interest dividends are derived from interest on
obligations of a state or its political subdivisions, or from interest on
qualifying U.S. territorial obligations (including qualifying obligations of
Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands or Guam), they also will be exempt from
that state's personal income taxes. Most states generally do not grant
tax-free treatment to interest on state and municipal securities of other
states.
The funds may earn taxable income on any temporary investments, on the
discount from stripped obligations or their coupons, on income from
securities loans or other taxable transactions, or on ordinary income derived
from the sale of market discount bonds. Any fund distributions from such
income will be taxable to you as ordinary income, whether you receive them in
cash or in additional shares.
DISTRIBUTIONS OF CAPITAL GAINS The funds may derive capital gains and losses
in connection with sales or other dispositions of their portfolio
securities. Distributions from net short-term capital gains will be taxable
to you as ordinary income. Distributions from net long-term capital gains
will be taxable to you as long-term capital gain, regardless of how long you
have held your shares in a fund. Any net capital gains realized by a fund
generally will be distributed once each year, and may be distributed more
frequently, if necessary, in order to reduce or eliminate excise or income
taxes on the fund.
INFORMATION ON THE TAX CHARACTER OF DISTRIBUTIONS The funds will inform you
of the amount of your ordinary income dividends and capital gains
distributions at the time they are paid, and will advise you of their tax
status for federal income tax purposes shortly after the close of each
calendar year, including the portion of the distributions that on average
comprise taxable income or interest income that is a tax preference item
under the alternative minimum tax. If you have not held fund shares for a
full year, a fund may designate and distribute to you, as taxable, tax-exempt
or tax preference, income a percentage of income that is not equal to the
actual amount of such income earned during the period of your investment in
the fund.
ELECTION TO BE TAXED AS A REGULATED INVESTMENT COMPANY Each fund has elected
to be treated as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the
Internal Revenue Code, has qualified as such for its most recent fiscal year,
and intends to so qualify during the current fiscal year. As regulated
investment companies, the funds generally pay no federal income tax on the
income and gains they distribute to you. The board reserves the right not to
maintain the qualification of a fund as a regulated investment company if it
determines such course of action to be beneficial to shareholders. In such
case, a fund will be subject to federal, and possibly state, corporate taxes
on its taxable income and gains, and distributions to you will be taxed as
ordinary dividend income to the extent of such fund's earnings and profits.
EXCISE TAX DISTRIBUTION REQUIREMENTS To avoid federal excise taxes, the
Internal Revenue Code requires each fund to distribute to you by December 31
of each year, at a minimum, the following amounts: 98% of its taxable
ordinary income earned during the calendar year; 98% of its capital gain net
income earned during the twelve month period ending October 31; and 100% of
any undistributed amounts from the prior year. Each fund intends to declare
and pay these amounts in December (or in January that are treated by you as
received in December) to avoid these excise taxes, but can give no assurances
that its distributions will be sufficient to eliminate all taxes.
REDEMPTION OF FUND SHARES Redemptions and exchanges of fund shares are
taxable transactions for federal and state income tax purposes. If you
redeem your fund shares, or exchange your fund shares for shares of a
different Franklin Templeton Fund, the IRS will require that you report a
gain or loss on your redemption or exchange. If you hold your shares as a
capital asset, the gain or loss that you realize will be capital gain or loss
and will be long-term or short-term, generally depending on how long you hold
your shares. Any loss incurred on the redemption or exchange of shares held
for six months or less will be disallowed to the extent of any
exempt-interest dividends distributed to you with respect to your fund shares
and any remaining loss will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the
extent of any long-term capital gains distributed to you by the fund on those
shares.
All or a portion of any loss that you realize upon the redemption of your
fund shares will be disallowed to the extent that you buy other shares in the
fund (through reinvestment of dividends or otherwise) within 30 days before
or after your share redemption. Any loss disallowed under these rules will
be added to your tax basis in the new shares you buy.
DEFERRAL OF BASIS If you redeem some or all of your shares in a fund, and
then reinvest the sales proceeds in such fund or in another Franklin
Templeton Fund within 90 days of buying the original shares, the sales charge
that would otherwise apply to your reinvestment may be reduced or eliminated.
The IRS will require you to report gain or loss on the redemption of your
original shares in a fund. In doing so, all or a portion of the sales charge
that you paid for your original shares in a fund will be excluded from your
tax basis in the shares sold (for the purpose of determining gain or loss
upon the sale of such shares). The portion of the sales charge excluded will
equal the amount that the sales charge is reduced on your reinvestment. Any
portion of the sales charge excluded from your tax basis in the shares sold
will be added to the tax basis of the shares you acquire from your
reinvestment.
DIVIDENDS-RECEIVED DEDUCTION FOR CORPORATIONS Because each fund's income
consists of interest rather than dividends, no portion of its distributions
generally will be eligible for the corporate dividends-received deduction.
None of the dividends paid by the funds for the most recent fiscal year
qualified for such deduction, and it is anticipated that none of the current
year's dividends will so qualify.
INVESTMENT IN COMPLEX SECURITIES Each fund may invest in complex
securities. These investments may be subject to numerous special and complex
tax rules. These rules could affect whether gains and losses recognized by a
fund are treated as ordinary income or capital gain, accelerate the
recognition of income to a fund and/or defer a fund's ability to recognize
losses. In turn, these rules may affect the amount, timing or character of
the income distributed to you by a fund.
TREATMENT OF PRIVATE ACTIVITY BOND INTEREST Interest on certain private
activity bonds, while still exempt from regular federal income tax, is a
preference item for taxpayers when determining their alternative minimum tax
under the Internal Revenue Code and under the income tax provisions of
several states. Private activity bond interest could subject you to or
increase your liability under federal and state alternative minimum taxes,
depending on your individual or corporate tax position. Persons who are
defined in the Internal Revenue Code as substantial users (or persons related
to such users) of facilities financed by private activity bonds should
consult with their tax advisors before buying fund shares.
ORGANIZATION, VOTING RIGHTS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The funds are series of Franklin Tax-Free Trust, an open-end management
investment company, commonly called a mutual fund. The trust was organized as
a Massachusetts business trust in September 1984, and is registered with the
SEC.
As a shareholder of a Massachusetts business trust, you could, under certain
circumstances, be held personally liable as a partner for its obligations.
The Agreement and Declaration of Trust, however, contains an express
disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the fund. The
Declaration of Trust also provides for indemnification and reimbursement of
expenses out of the fund's assets if you are held personally liable for
obligations of the fund. The Declaration of Trust provides that the fund
shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against you for any
act or obligation of the fund and satisfy any judgment thereon. All such
rights are limited to the assets of the fund. The Declaration of Trust
further provides that the fund may maintain appropriate insurance (for
example, fidelity bonding and errors and omissions insurance) for the
protection of the fund, its shareholders, trustees, officers, employees and
agents to cover possible tort and other liabilities. Furthermore, the
activities of the fund as an investment company, as distinguished from an
operating company, would not likely give rise to liabilities in excess of the
fund's total assets. Thus, the risk that you would incur financial loss on
account of shareholder liability is limited to the unlikely circumstance in
which both inadequate insurance exists and the fund itself is unable to meet
its obligations.
The High Yield Fund currently offers three classes of shares, Class A, Class
B and Class C. The Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, New Jersey, Oregon,
Pennsylvania, and Puerto Rico funds currently offer two classes of shares,
Class A and Class C. The remaining funds currently offer Class A shares only.
Before January 1, 1999, Class A shares were designated Class I and Class C
shares were designated Class II. The High Yield Fund began offering Class B
shares on January 1, 1999. The funds may offer additional classes of shares
in the future. The full title of each class is:
o Franklin Arizona Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Arizona Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Colorado Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Colorado Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Connecticut Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Connecticut Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Federal Intermediate-Term Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund - Class B
o Franklin High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Indiana Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Michigan Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin New Jersey Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin New Jersey Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Oregon Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Oregon Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Pennsylvania Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Pennsylvania Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
o Franklin Puerto Rico Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Puerto Rico Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
Shares of each class represent proportionate interests in the fund's assets.
On matters that affect the fund as a whole, each class has the same voting
and other rights and preferences as any other class. On matters that affect
only one class, only shareholders of that class may vote. Each class votes
separately on matters affecting only that class, or expressly required to be
voted on separately by state or federal law. Shares of each class of a series
have the same voting and other rights and preferences as the other classes
and series of the trust for matters that affect the trust as a whole.
Additional series may be offered in the future.
The trust has noncumulative voting rights. For board member elections, this
gives holders of more than 50% of the shares voting the ability to elect all
of the members of the board. If this happens, holders of the remaining shares
voting will not be able to elect anyone to the board.
The trust does not intend to hold annual shareholder meetings. The trust or a
series of the trust may hold special meetings, however, for matters requiring
shareholder approval. A meeting may be called by the board to consider the
removal of a board member if requested in writing by shareholders holding at
least 10% of the outstanding shares. In certain circumstances, we are
required to help you communicate with other shareholders about the removal of
a board member. A special meeting also may be called by the board in its
discretion.
As of April 12, 1999, the principal shareholders of the fund, beneficial or
of record, were:
NAME AND ADDRESS SHARE CLASS PERCENTAGE
(%)
- -------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Resources Inc. Class A 16.02%
Corporate Accounting
555 Airport Boulevard 5th Fl
Burlingame, CA 94010
From time to time, the number of fund shares held in the "street name"
accounts of various securities dealers for the benefit of their clients or in
centralized securities depositories may exceed 5% of the total shares
outstanding.
As of April 12, 1999, the officers and board members, as a group, owned of
record and beneficially less than 1% of the outstanding shares of each class
of each fund. The board members may own shares in other funds in the Franklin
Templeton Group of Funds.
BUYING AND SELLING SHARES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fund continuously offers its shares through securities dealers who have
an agreement with Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. (Distributors). A
securities dealer includes any financial institution that, either directly or
through affiliates, has an agreement with Distributors to handle customer
orders and accounts with the fund. This reference is for convenience only and
does not indicate a legal conclusion of capacity. Banks and financial
institutions that sell shares of the fund may be required by state law to
register as securities dealers.
For investors outside the U.S., the offering of fund shares may be limited in
many jurisdictions. An investor who wishes to buy shares of the fund should
determine, or have a broker-dealer determine, the applicable laws and
regulations of the relevant jurisdiction. Investors are responsible for
compliance with tax, currency exchange or other regulations applicable to
redemption and purchase transactions in any jurisdiction to which they may be
subject. Investors should consult appropriate tax and legal advisors to
obtain information on the rules applicable to these transactions.
All checks, drafts, wires and other payment mediums used to buy or sell
shares of the fund must be denominated in U.S. dollars. We may, in our sole
discretion, either (a) reject any order to buy or sell shares denominated in
any other currency or (b) honor the transaction or make adjustments to your
account for the transaction as of a date and with a foreign currency exchange
factor determined by the drawee bank.
When you buy shares, if you submit a check or a draft that is returned unpaid
to the fund we may impose a $10 charge against your account for each returned
item.
INITIAL SALES CHARGES The maximum initial sales charge is 2.25% for the
Federal Intermediate Fund. The maximum initial sales charge is 4.25% for
Class A and 1% for Class C shares for the remaining funds. There is no
initial sales charge for Class B shares of the High Yield Fund.
The initial sales charge for Class A shares may be reduced for certain large
purchases, as described in the prospectus. We offer several ways for you to
combine your purchases in the Franklin Templeton Funds to take advantage of
the lower sales charges for large purchases. The Franklin Templeton Funds
include the U.S. registered mutual funds in the Franklin Group of Funds(R) and
the Templeton Group of Funds except Franklin Valuemark Funds, Templeton
Capital Accumulator Fund, Inc., and Templeton Variable Products Series Fund.
CUMULATIVE QUANTITY DISCOUNT. For purposes of calculating the sales charge on
Class A shares, you may combine the amount of your current purchase with the
cost or current value, whichever is higher, of your existing shares in the
Franklin Templeton Funds. You also may combine the shares of your spouse,
children under the age of 21 or grandchildren under the age of 21. If you are
the sole owner of a company, you also may add any company accounts, including
retirement plan accounts.
LETTER OF INTENT (LOI). You may buy Class A shares at a reduced sales charge
by completing the letter of intent section of your account application. A
letter of intent is a commitment by you to invest a specified dollar amount
during a 13 month period. The amount you agree to invest determines the sales
charge you pay. By completing the letter of intent section of the
application, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
o You authorize Distributors to reserve 5% of your total intended purchase
in Class A shares registered in your name until you fulfill your LOI. Your
periodic statements will include the reserved shares in the total shares
you own, and we will pay or reinvest dividend and capital gain
distributions on the reserved shares according to the distribution option
you have chosen.
o You give Distributors a security interest in the reserved shares and
appoint Distributors as attorney-in-fact.
o Distributors may sell any or all of the reserved shares to cover any
additional sales charge if you do not fulfill the terms of the LOI.
o Although you may exchange your shares, you may not sell reserved shares
until you complete the LOI or pay the higher sales charge.
After you file your LOI with the fund, you may buy Class A shares at the
sales charge applicable to the amount specified in your LOI. Sales charge
reductions based on purchases in more than one Franklin Templeton Fund will
be effective only after notification to Distributors that the investment
qualifies for a discount. Any Class A purchases you made within 90 days
before you filed your LOI also may qualify for a retroactive reduction in the
sales charge. If you file your LOI with the fund before a change in the
fund's sales charge, you may complete the LOI at the lower of the new sales
charge or the sales charge in effect when the LOI was filed.
Your holdings in the Franklin Templeton Funds acquired more than 90 days
before you filed your LOI will be counted towards the completion of the LOI,
but they will not be entitled to a retroactive reduction in the sales charge.
Any redemptions you make during the 13 month period will be subtracted from
the amount of the purchases for purposes of determining whether the terms of
the LOI have been completed.
If the terms of your LOI are met, the reserved shares will be deposited to an
account in your name or delivered to you or as you direct. If the amount of
your total purchases, less redemptions, is more than the amount specified in
your LOI and is an amount that would qualify for a further sales charge
reduction, a retroactive price adjustment will be made by Distributors and
the securities dealer through whom purchases were made. The price adjustment
will be made on purchases made within 90 days before and on those made after
you filed your LOI and will be applied towards the purchase of additional
shares at the offering price applicable to a single purchase or the dollar
amount of the total purchases.
If the amount of your total purchases, less redemptions, is less than the
amount specified in your LOI, the sales charge will be adjusted upward,
depending on the actual amount purchased (less redemptions) during the
period. You will need to send Distributors an amount equal to the difference
in the actual dollar amount of sales charge paid and the amount of sales
charge that would have applied to the total purchases if the total of the
purchases had been made at one time. Upon payment of this amount, the
reserved shares held for your account will be deposited to an account in your
name or delivered to you or as you direct. If within 20 days after written
request the difference in sales charge is not paid, we will redeem an
appropriate number of reserved shares to realize the difference. If you
redeem the total amount in your account before you fulfill your LOI, we will
deduct the additional sales charge due from the sale proceeds and forward the
balance to you.
GROUP PURCHASES. If you are a member of a qualified group, you may buy Class
A shares at a reduced sales charge that applies to the group as a whole. The
sales charge is based on the combined dollar value of the group members'
existing investments, plus the amount of the current purchase.
A qualified group is one that:
o Was formed at least six months ago,
o Has a purpose other than buying fund shares at a discount,
o Has more than 10 members,
o Can arrange for meetings between our representatives and group members,
o Agrees to include Franklin Templeton Fund sales and other materials in
publications and mailings to its members at reduced or no cost to
Distributors,
o Agrees to arrange for payroll deduction or other bulk transmission of
investments to the fund, and
o Meets other uniform criteria that allow Distributors to achieve cost
savings in distributing shares.
WAIVERS FOR INVESTMENTS FROM CERTAIN PAYMENTS. Class A shares may be
purchased without an initial sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge
(CDSC) by investors who reinvest within 365 days:
o Dividend and capital gain distributions from any Franklin Templeton
Fund. The distributions generally must be reinvested in the same share
class. Certain exceptions apply, however, to Class C shareholders who chose
to reinvest their distributions in Class A shares of the fund before
November 17, 1997, and to Advisor Class or Class Z shareholders of a
Franklin Templeton Fund who may reinvest their distributions in the fund's
Class A shares. This waiver category also applies to Class B and C shares.
o Dividend or capital gain distributions from a real estate investment
trust (REIT) sponsored or advised by Franklin Properties, Inc.
o Annuity payments received under either an annuity option or from death
benefit proceeds, if the annuity contract offers as an investment option
the Franklin Valuemark Funds or the Templeton Variable Products Series
Fund. You should contact your tax advisor for information on any tax
consequences that may apply.
o Redemption proceeds from a repurchase of shares of Franklin Floating
Rate Trust, if the shares were continuously held for at least 12 months.
If you immediately placed your redemption proceeds in a Franklin Bank CD or
a Franklin Templeton money fund, you may reinvest them as described above.
The proceeds must be reinvested within 365 days from the date the CD
matures, including any rollover, or the date you redeem your money fund
shares.
o Redemption proceeds from the sale of Class A shares of any of the
Templeton Global Strategy Funds if you are a qualified investor.
If you paid a CDSC when you redeemed your Class A shares from a Templeton
Global Strategy Fund, a new CDSC will apply to your purchase of fund shares
and the CDSC holding period will begin again. We will, however, credit your
fund account with additional shares based on the CDSC you previously paid
and the amount of the redemption proceeds that you reinvest.
If you immediately placed your redemption proceeds in a Franklin Templeton
money fund, you may reinvest them as described above. The proceeds must be
reinvested within 365 days from the date they are redeemed from the money
fund.
WAIVERS FOR CERTAIN INVESTORS. Class A shares also may be purchased without
an initial sales charge or CDSC by various individuals and institutions due
to anticipated economies in sales efforts and expenses, including:
o Trust companies and bank trust departments agreeing to invest in
Franklin Templeton Funds over a 13 month period at least $1 million of
assets held in a fiduciary, agency, advisory, custodial or similar capacity
and over which the trust companies and bank trust departments or other plan
fiduciaries or participants, in the case of certain retirement plans, have
full or shared investment discretion. We will accept orders for these
accounts by mail accompanied by a check or by telephone or other means of
electronic data transfer directly from the bank or trust company, with
payment by federal funds received by the close of business on the next
business day following the order.
o Any state or local government or any instrumentality, department,
authority or agency thereof that has determined the fund is a legally
permissible investment and that can only buy fund shares without paying
sales charges. Please consult your legal and investment advisors to
determine if an investment in the fund is permissible and suitable for you
and the effect, if any, of payments by the fund on arbitrage rebate
calculations.
o Broker-dealers, registered investment advisors or certified financial
planners who have entered into an agreement with Distributors for clients
participating in comprehensive fee programs
o Qualified registered investment advisors who buy through a broker-dealer
or service agent who has entered into an agreement with Distributors
o Registered securities dealers and their affiliates, for their investment
accounts only
o Current employees of securities dealers and their affiliates and their
family members, as allowed by the internal policies of their employer
o Officers, trustees, directors and full-time employees of the Franklin
Templeton Funds or the Franklin Templeton Group, and their family members,
consistent with our then-current policies
o Any investor who is currently a Class Z shareholder of Franklin Mutual
Series Fund Inc. (Mutual Series), or who is a former Mutual Series Class Z
shareholder who had an account in any Mutual Series fund on October 31,
1996, or who sold his or her shares of Mutual Series Class Z within the
past 365 days
o Investment companies exchanging shares or selling assets pursuant to a
merger, acquisition or exchange offer
o Accounts managed by the Franklin Templeton Group
o Certain unit investment trusts and their holders reinvesting
distributions from the trusts
SALES IN TAIWAN. Under agreements with certain banks in Taiwan, Republic of
China, the fund's shares are available to these banks' trust accounts without
a sales charge. The banks may charge service fees to their customers who
participate in the trusts. A portion of these service fees may be paid to
Distributors or one of its affiliates to help defray expenses of maintaining
a service office in Taiwan, including expenses related to local literature
fulfillment and communication facilities.
The fund's Class A shares may be offered to investors in Taiwan through
securities advisory firms known locally as Securities Investment Consulting
Enterprises. In conformity with local business practices in Taiwan, Class A
shares may be offered with the following schedule of sales charges:
SIZE OF PURCHASE - U.S. DOLLARS SALES CHARGE (%)
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Under $30,000 3.0
$30,000 but less than $100,000 2.0
$100,000 but less than $400,000 1.0
$400,000 or more 0
DEALER COMPENSATION Securities dealers may at times receive the entire sales
charge. A securities dealer who receives 90% or more of the sales charge may
be deemed an underwriter under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
Financial institutions or their affiliated brokers may receive an agency
transaction fee in the percentages indicated in the dealer compensation table
in the fund's prospectus.
Distributors may pay the following commissions, out of its own resources, to
securities dealers who initiate and are responsible for purchases of Class A
shares of $1 million or more: 0.75% on sales of $1 million to $2 million,
plus 0.60% on sales over $2 million to $3 million, plus 0.50% on sales over
$3 million to $50 million, plus 0.25% on sales over $50 million to $100
million, plus 0.15% on sales over $100 million.
These breakpoints are reset every 12 months for purposes of additional
purchases.
Distributors and/or its affiliates provide financial support to various
securities dealers that sell shares of the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
This support is based primarily on the amount of sales of fund shares. The
amount of support may be affected by: total sales; net sales; levels of
redemptions; the proportion of a securities dealer's sales and marketing
efforts in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; a securities dealer's
support of, and participation in, Distributors' marketing programs; a
securities dealer's compensation programs for its registered representatives;
and the extent of a securities dealer's marketing programs relating to the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Financial support to securities dealers
may be made by payments from Distributors' resources, from Distributors'
retention of underwriting concessions and, in the case of funds that have
Rule 12b-1 plans, from payments to Distributors under such plans. In
addition, certain securities dealers may receive brokerage commissions
generated by fund portfolio transactions in accordance with the rules of the
National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
Distributors routinely sponsors due diligence meetings for registered
representatives during which they receive updates on various Franklin
Templeton Funds and are afforded the opportunity to speak with portfolio
managers. Invitation to these meetings is not conditioned on selling a
specific number of shares. Those who have shown an interest in the Franklin
Templeton Funds, however, are more likely to be considered. To the extent
permitted by their firm's policies and procedures, registered
representatives' expenses in attending these meetings may be covered by
Distributors.
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE (CDSC) If you invest $1 million or more in
Class A shares, either as a lump sum or through our cumulative quantity
discount or letter of intent programs, a CDSC may apply on any shares you
sell within 12 months of purchase. For Class C shares, a CDSC may apply if
you sell your shares within 18 months of purchase. The CDSC is 1% of the
value of the shares sold or the net asset value at the time of purchase,
whichever is less. A CDSC will not apply to Class A purchases over $250
million in the High Yield Fund.
For the High Yield Fund Class B shares, there is a CDSC if you sell your
shares within six years, as described in the table below. The charge is based
on the value of the shares sold or the net asset value at the time of
purchase, whichever is less.
IF YOU SELL YOUR CLASS B
SHARES WITHIN THIS MANY YEARS THIS % IS DEDUCTED
AFTER BUYING THEM FROM YOUR PROCEEDS
AS A CDSC
- ------------------------------------------------------
1 Year 4
2 Years 4
3 Years 3
4 Years 3
5 Years 2
6 Years 1
7 Years 0
CDSC WAIVERS. The CDSC for any share class generally will be waived for:
o Account fees
o Redemptions of Class A shares by investors who purchased $1 million or
more without an initial sales charge if the securities dealer of record
waived its commission in connection with the purchase
o Redemptions by the fund when an account falls below the minimum required
account size
o Redemptions following the death of the shareholder or beneficial owner
o Redemptions through a systematic withdrawal plan set up before February
1, 1995 (Except for the Michigan Fund)
o Redemptions through a systematic withdrawal plan set up on or after
February 1, 1995 (except for the Michigan Fund), up to 1% monthly, 3%
quarterly, 6% semiannually or 12% annually of your account's net asset
value depending on the frequency of your plan
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE If you request the exchange of the total value of your
account, accrued but unpaid income dividends and capital gain distributions
will be reinvested in the fund at net asset value on the date of the
exchange, and then the entire share balance will be exchanged into the new
fund. Backup withholding and information reporting may apply.
If a substantial number of shareholders should, within a short period, sell
their fund shares under the exchange privilege, the fund might have to sell
portfolio securities it might otherwise hold and incur the additional costs
related to such transactions. On the other hand, increased use of the
exchange privilege may result in periodic large inflows of money. If this
occurs, it is the fund's general policy to initially invest this money in
short-term, tax-exempt municipal securities, unless it is believed that
attractive investment opportunities consistent with the fund's investment
goals exist immediately. This money will then be withdrawn from the
short-term, tax-exempt municipal securities and invested in portfolio
securities in as orderly a manner as is possible when attractive investment
opportunities arise.
The proceeds from the sale of shares of an investment company are generally
not available until the seventh day following the sale. The funds you are
seeking to exchange into may delay issuing shares pursuant to an exchange
until that seventh day. The sale of fund shares to complete an exchange will
be effected at net asset value at the close of business on the day the
request for exchange is received in proper form.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN Our systematic withdrawal plan allows you to sell
your shares and receive regular payments from your account on a monthly,
quarterly, semiannual or annual basis. The value of your account must be at
least $5,000 and the minimum payment amount for each withdrawal must be at
least $50. There are no service charges for establishing or maintaining a
systematic withdrawal plan. Once your plan is established, any distributions
paid by the fund will be automatically reinvested in your account.
Payments under the plan will be made from the redemption of an equivalent
amount of shares in your account, generally on the 25th day of the month in
which a payment is scheduled. If the 25th falls on a weekend or holiday, we
will process the redemption on the next business day. When you sell your
shares under a systematic withdrawal plan, it is a taxable transaction.
To avoid paying sales charges on money you plan to withdraw within a short
period of time, you may not want to set up a systematic withdrawal plan if
you plan to buy shares on a regular basis. Shares sold under the plan also
may be subject to a CDSC.
Redeeming shares through a systematic withdrawal plan may reduce or exhaust
the shares in your account if payments exceed distributions received from the
fund. This is especially likely to occur if there is a market decline. If a
withdrawal amount exceeds the value of your account, your account will be
closed and the remaining balance in your account will be sent to you. Because
the amount withdrawn under the plan may be more than your actual yield or
income, part of the payment may be a return of your investment.
You may discontinue a systematic withdrawal plan, change the amount and
schedule of withdrawal payments, or suspend one payment by notifying us by
mail or by phone at least seven business days before the end of the month
preceding a scheduled payment. The fund may discontinue a systematic
withdrawal plan by notifying you in writing and will automatically
discontinue a systematic withdrawal plan if all shares in your account are
withdrawn or if the fund receives notification of the shareholder's death or
incapacity.
REDEMPTIONS IN KIND The fund has committed itself to pay in cash (by check)
all requests for redemption by any shareholder of record, limited in amount,
however, during any 90-day period to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the
value of the fund's net assets at the beginning of the 90-day period. This
commitment is irrevocable without the prior approval of the U.S. Securities
and Exchange Commission (SEC). In the case of redemption requests in excess
of these amounts, the board reserves the right to make payments in whole or
in part in securities or other assets of the fund, in case of an emergency,
or if the payment of such a redemption in cash would be detrimental to the
existing shareholders of the fund. In these circumstances, the securities
distributed would be valued at the price used to compute the fund's net
assets and you may incur brokerage fees in converting the securities to cash.
The fund does not intend to redeem illiquid securities in kind. If this
happens, however, you may not be able to recover your investment in a timely
manner.
SHARE CERTIFICATES We will credit your shares to your fund account. We do
not issue share certificates unless you specifically request them. This
eliminates the costly problem of replacing lost, stolen or destroyed
certificates. If a certificate is lost, stolen or destroyed, you may have to
pay an insurance premium of up to 2% of the value of the certificate to
replace it.
Any outstanding share certificates must be returned to the fund if you want
to sell or exchange those shares or if you would like to start a systematic
withdrawal plan. The certificates should be properly endorsed. You can do
this either by signing the back of the certificate or by completing a share
assignment form. For your protection, you may prefer to complete a share
assignment form and to send the certificate and assignment form in separate
envelopes.
GENERAL INFORMATION If dividend checks are returned to the fund marked
"unable to forward" by the postal service, we will consider this a request by
you to change your dividend option to reinvest all distributions. The
proceeds will be reinvested in additional shares at net asset value until we
receive new instructions.
Distribution or redemption checks sent to you do not earn interest or any
other income during the time the checks remain uncashed. Neither the fund nor
its affiliates will be liable for any loss caused by your failure to cash
such checks. The fund is not responsible for tracking down uncashed checks,
unless a check is returned as undeliverable.
In most cases, if mail is returned as undeliverable we are required to take
certain steps to try to find you free of charge. If these attempts are
unsuccessful, however, we may deduct the costs of any additional efforts to
find you from your account. These costs may include a percentage of the
account when a search company charges a percentage fee in exchange for its
location services.
The wiring of redemption proceeds is a special service that we make available
whenever possible. By offering this service to you, the fund is not bound to
meet any redemption request in less than the seven day period prescribed by
law. Neither the fund nor its agents shall be liable to you or any other
person if, for any reason, a redemption request by wire is not processed as
described in the prospectus.
Franklin Templeton Investor Services, Inc. (Investor Services) may pay
certain financial institutions that maintain omnibus accounts with the fund
on behalf of numerous beneficial owners for recordkeeping operations
performed with respect to such owners. For each beneficial owner in the
omnibus account, the fund may reimburse Investor Services an amount not to
exceed the per account fee that the fund normally pays Investor Services.
These financial institutions also may charge a fee for their services
directly to their clients.
If you buy or sell shares through your securities dealer, we use the net
asset value next calculated after your securities dealer receives your
request, which is promptly transmitted to the fund. If you sell shares
through your securities dealer, it is your dealer's responsibility to
transmit the order to the fund in a timely fashion. Your redemption proceeds
will not earn interest between the time we receive the order from your dealer
and the time we receive any required documents. Any loss to you resulting
from your dealer's failure to transmit your redemption order to the fund in a
timely fashion must be settled between you and your securities dealer.
Certain shareholder servicing agents may be authorized to accept your
transaction request.
For institutional accounts, there may be additional methods of buying or
selling fund shares than those described in this SAI or in the prospectus.
In the event of disputes involving multiple claims of ownership or authority
to control your account, the fund has the right (but has no obligation) to:
(a) freeze the account and require the written agreement of all persons
deemed by the fund to have a potential property interest in the account,
before executing instructions regarding the account; (b) interplead disputed
funds or accounts with a court of competent jurisdiction; or (c) surrender
ownership of all or a portion of the account to the IRS in response to a
notice of levy.
PRICING SHARES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When you buy shares, you pay the offering price. The offering price is the
net asset value (NAV) per share plus any applicable sales charge, calculated
to two decimal places using standard rounding criteria. When you sell shares,
you receive the NAV minus any applicable CDSC.
The value of a mutual fund is determined by deducting the fund's liabilities
from the total assets of the portfolio. The net asset value per share is
determined by dividing the net asset value of the fund by the number of
shares outstanding.
The fund calculates the NAV per share of each class each business day at the
close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally 1:00 p.m. pacific
time). The fund does not calculate the NAV on days the New York Stock
Exchange (NYSE) is closed for trading, which include New Year's Day, Martin
Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence
Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
When determining its NAV, the fund values cash and receivables at their
realizable amounts, and records interest as accrued. The fund values
over-the-counter portfolio securities within the range of the most recent
quoted bid and ask prices. If portfolio securities trade both in the
over-the-counter market and on a stock exchange, the fund values them
according to the broadest and most representative market as determined by the
manager. Municipal securities generally trade in the over-the-counter market
rather than on a securities exchange. In the absence of a sale or reported
bid and ask prices, information with respect to bond and note transactions,
quotations from bond dealers, market transactions in comparable securities,
and various relationships between securities are used to determine the value
of municipal securities.
Generally, trading in U.S. government securities and money market instruments
is substantially completed each day at various times before the close of the
NYSE. The value of these securities used in computing the NAV is determined
as of such times. Occasionally, events affecting the values of these
securities may occur between the times at which they are determined and the
close of the NYSE that will not be reflected in the computation of the NAV.
If events materially affecting the values of these securities occur during
this period, the securities will be valued at their fair value as determined
in good faith by the board.
Other securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued
at the current market price, which may be obtained from a pricing service,
based on a variety of factors including recent trades, institutional size
trading in similar types of securities (considering yield, risk and maturity)
and/or developments related to specific issues. Securities and other assets
for which market prices are not readily available are valued at fair value as
determined following procedures approved by the board. With the approval of
the board, the fund may use a pricing service, bank or securities dealer to
perform any of the above described functions.
THE UNDERWRITER
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. (Distributors) acts as the principal
underwriter in the continuous public offering of the fund's shares.
Distributors is located at 777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404.
Distributors pays the expenses of the distribution of fund shares, including
advertising expenses and the costs of printing sales material and
prospectuses used to offer shares to the public. The fund pays the expenses
of preparing and printing amendments to its registration statements and
prospectuses (other than those necessitated by the activities of
Distributors) and of sending prospectuses to existing shareholders.
The table below shows the aggregate underwriting commissions Distributors
received in connection with the offering of the fund's shares, the net
underwriting discounts and commissions Distributors retained after allowances
to dealers, and the amounts Distributors received in connection with
redemptions or repurchases of shares for the last three fiscal years ended
February 28:
AMOUNT RECEIVED IN
TOTAL AMOUNT RETAINED CONNECTION WITH
COMMISSIONS BY DISTRIBUTORS REDEMPTIONS AND
RECEIVED ($) ($) REPURCHASES ($)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999
Arizona Fund 3,109,731 204,136 12,269
Colorado Fund 1,230,170 75,655 8,464
Connecticut Fund 1,280,521 72,556 7,518
Federal
Intermediate Fund 408,916 55,742 4,464
High Yield Fund 24,360,736 1,514,537 283,409
Indiana Fund 206,649 14,009 --
Michigan Fund 208,099 13,810 --
New Jersey Fund 2,838,883 169,312 23,450
Oregon Fund 2,294,919 142,478 13,763
Pennsylvania Fund 2,942,369 186,194 16,329
Puerto Rico Fund 703,085 44,229 5,057
1998
Arizona Fund 2,894,958 189,181 5,073
Colorado Fund 1,099,794 68,871 2,658
Connecticut Fund 1,038,873 64,019 2,066
Federal
Intermediate Fund 346,839 47,207 --
High Yield Fund 27,355,789 1,661,281 114,622
Indiana Fund 188,219 12,470 --
Michigan Fund 112,690 7,243 --
New Jersey Fund 2,514,214 152,637 10,997
Oregon Fund 1,645,005 106,236 4,656
Pennsylvania Fund 3,017,041 187,577 5,534
Puerto Rico Fund 748,531 49,128 1,587
1997
Arizona Fund 2,438,719 159,341 2,749
Colorado Fund 838,759 52,237 6,126
Connecticut Fund 958,649 60,427 711
Federal
Intermediate Fund 301,298 40,297 --
High Yield Fund 26,688,526 1,654,304 52,856
Indiana Fund 200,618 13,121 --
Michigan Fund 43,942 2,585 --
New Jersey Fund 2,075,332 131,524 4,080
Oregon Fund 1,398,757 89,649 2,950
Pennsylvania Fund 2,594,028 155,077 31,296
Puerto Rico Fund 621,195 39,228 2,964
Distributors may be entitled to reimbursement under the Rule 12b-1 plans, as
discussed below. Except as noted, Distributors received no other compensation
from the fund for acting as underwriter.
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES Each class has a separate distribution
or "Rule 12b-1" plan. Under each plan, the fund shall pay or may reimburse
Distributors or others for the expenses of activities that are primarily
intended to sell shares of the class. These expenses may include, among
others, distribution or service fees paid to securities dealers or others who
have executed a servicing agreement with the fund, Distributors or its
affiliates; a prorated portion of Distributors' overhead expenses; and the
expenses of printing prospectuses and reports used for sales purposes, and
preparing and distributing sales literature and advertisements.
The distribution and service (12b-1) fees charged to each class are based
only on the fees attributable to that particular class.
MICHIGAN PLAN. Under its plan, the Michigan Fund may pay up to a maximum of
0.15% per year of its average daily net assets, payable quarterly, for
expenses incurred in the promotion and distribution of its shares, although
the fund is currently only reimbursing up to 0.10%.
THE CLASS A PLAN. Payments by the fund under the Class A plan may not exceed
0.10% per year of Class A's average daily net assets, payable quarterly. All
distribution expenses over this amount will be borne by those who have
incurred them.
In implementing the Class A plan of each fund, except the Federal
Intermediate and Michigan funds, the board has determined that the annual
fees payable under the plan will be equal to the sum of: (i) the amount
obtained by multiplying 0.10% by the average daily net assets represented by
the fund's Class A shares that were acquired by investors on or after May 1,
1994, the effective date of the plan (new assets), and (ii) the amount
obtained by multiplying 0.05% by the average daily net assets represented by
the fund's Class A shares that were acquired before May 1, 1994 (old assets).
These fees will be paid to the current securities dealer of record on the
account. In addition, until such time as the maximum payment of 0.10% is
reached on a yearly basis, up to an additional 0.02% will be paid to
Distributors under the plan. When the fund reaches $4 billion in assets, the
amount to be paid to Distributors will be reduced from 0.02% to 0.01%. The
payments made to Distributors will be used by Distributors to defray other
marketing expenses that have been incurred in accordance with the plan, such
as advertising.
The fee is a Class A expense. This means that all Class A shareholders,
regardless of when they purchased their shares, will bear Rule 12b-1 expenses
at the same rate. The initial rate for each fund except the Federal
Intermediate and Michigan funds will be at least 0.07% (0.05% plus 0.02%) of
the average daily net assets of Class A and, as Class A shares are sold on or
after May 1, 1994, will increase over time. Thus, as the proportion of Class
A shares purchased on or after May 1, 1994, increases in relation to
outstanding Class A shares, the expenses attributable to payments under the
plan also will increase (but will not exceed 0.10% of average daily net
assets). While this is the currently anticipated calculation for fees payable
under the Class A plan, the plan permits the board to allow the fund to pay a
full 0.10% on all assets at any time. The approval of the board would be
required to change the calculation of the payments to be made under the Class
A plans.
The Class A plan does not permit unreimbursed expenses incurred in a
particular year to be carried over to or reimbursed in later years.
THE CLASS B AND C PLANS. Under the High Yield Fund Class B plan and the
remaining funds' Class C plans, the funds pay Distributors up to 0.50% per
year of the class's average daily net assets, payable quarterly, to pay
Distributors or others for providing distribution and related services and
bearing certain expenses. All distribution expenses over this amount will be
borne by those who have incurred them. The fund also may pay a servicing fee
of up to 0.15% per year of the class's average daily net assets, payable
quarterly. This fee may be used to pay securities dealers or others for,
among other things, helping to establish and maintain customer accounts and
records, helping with requests to buy and sell shares, receiving and
answering correspondence, monitoring dividend payments from the fund on
behalf of customers, and similar servicing and account maintenance
activities.
The expenses relating to each of the Class B and C plans also are used to pay
Distributors for advancing the commission costs to securities dealers with
respect to the initial sale of Class B and C shares. Further, the expenses
relating to the Class B plan may be used by Distributors to pay third party
financing entities that have provided financing to Distributors in connection
with advancing commission costs to securities dealers.
THE CLASS A, B AND C PLANS. In addition to the payments that Distributors or
others are entitled to under each plan, each plan also provides that to the
extent the fund, the manager or Distributors or other parties on behalf of
the fund, the manager or Distributors make payments that are deemed to be for
the financing of any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of
fund shares within the context of Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act
of 1940, as amended, then such payments shall be deemed to have been made
pursuant to the plan. The terms and provisions of each plan relating to
required reports, term, and approval are consistent with Rule 12b-1.
In no event shall the aggregate asset-based sales charges, which include
payments made under each plan, plus any other payments deemed to be made
pursuant to a plan, exceed the amount permitted to be paid under the rules of
the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
To the extent fees are for distribution or marketing functions, as
distinguished from administrative servicing or agency transactions, certain
banks will not be entitled to participate in the plans as a result of
applicable federal law prohibiting certain banks from engaging in the
distribution of mutual fund shares. These banking institutions, however, are
permitted to receive fees under the plans for administrative servicing or for
agency transactions. If you are a customer of a bank that is prohibited from
providing these services, you would be permitted to remain a shareholder of
the fund, and alternate means for continuing the servicing would be sought.
In this event, changes in the services provided might occur and you might no
longer be able to avail yourself of any automatic investment or other
services then being provided by the bank. It is not expected that you would
suffer any adverse financial consequences as a result of any of these changes.
Each plan has been approved in accordance with the provisions of Rule 12b-1.
The plans are renewable annually by a vote of the board, including a majority
vote of the board members who are not interested persons of the fund and who
have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the plans,
cast in person at a meeting called for that purpose. It is also required that
the selection and nomination of such board members be done by the
noninterested members of the fund's board. The plans and any related
agreement may be terminated at any time, without penalty, by vote of a
majority of the noninterested board members on not more than 60 days' written
notice, by Distributors on not more than 60 days' written notice, by any act
that constitutes an assignment of the management agreement with the manager
or by vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the class. The Class A
plan also may be terminated by any act that constitutes an assignment of the
underwriting agreement with Distributors. Distributors or any dealer or other
firm also may terminate their respective distribution or service agreement at
any time upon written notice.
The plans and any related agreements may not be amended to increase
materially the amount to be spent for distribution expenses without approval
by a majority of the outstanding shares of the class, and all material
amendments to the plans or any related agreements shall be approved by a vote
of the noninterested board members, cast in person at a meeting called for
the purpose of voting on any such amendment.
Distributors is required to report in writing to the board at least quarterly
on the amounts and purpose of any payment made under the plans and any
related agreements, as well as to furnish the board with such other
information as may reasonably be requested in order to enable the board to
make an informed determination of whether the plans should be continued.
For the fiscal year ended February 28, 1999, Distributors' eligible
expenditures for advertising, printing, and payments to underwriters and
broker-dealers pursuant to the plans and the amounts the fund paid
Distributors under the plans were:
DISTRIBUTORS' AMOUNT
ELIGIBLE PAID
EXPENSES ($) BY THE
FUND ($)
-----------------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund - Class A 905,874 756,099
Arizona Fund - Class C 228,434 118,919
Colorado Fund - Class A 401,801 266,061
Colorado Fund - Class C 189,417 99,834
Connecticut Fund - Class A 273,334 206,877
Connecticut Fund - Class C 201,435 88,879
Federal Intermediate Fund 302,601 160,061
High Yield Fund - Class A 8,022,234 5,149,820
High Yield Fund - Class B 167,011 1,654
High Yield Fund - Class C 5,282,583 3,431,976
Indiana Fund - Class A 105,872 50,981
Michigan Fund - Class A 44,118 12,261
New Jersey Fund - Class A 740,497 603,991
New Jersey Fund - Class C 409,626 237,210
Oregon Fund - Class A 589,949 412,566
Oregon Fund - Class C 301,399 154,878
Pennsylvania Fund - Class A 812,111 673,325
Pennsylvania Fund - Class C 345,946 208,598
Puerto Rico Fund - Class A 236,743 192,324
Puerto Rico Fund - Class C 65,212 33,042
PERFORMANCE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Performance quotations are subject to SEC rules. These rules require the use
of standardized performance quotations or, alternatively, that every
non-standardized performance quotation furnished by the fund be accompanied
by certain standardized performance information computed as required by the
SEC. Average annual total return and current yield quotations used by the
fund are based on the standardized methods of computing performance mandated
by the SEC. Performance figures reflect Rule 12b-1 fees from the date of the
plan's implementation. An explanation of these and other methods used by the
fund to compute or express performance follows. Regardless of the method
used, past performance does not guarantee future results, and is an
indication of the return to shareholders only for the limited historical
period used.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN Average annual total return is determined by
finding the average annual rates of return over the periods indicated below
that would equate an initial hypothetical $1,000 investment to its ending
redeemable value. The calculation assumes the maximum initial sales charge is
deducted from the initial $1,000 purchase, and income dividends and capital
gain distributions are reinvested at net asset value. The quotation assumes
the account was completely redeemed at the end of each period and the
deduction of all applicable charges and fees. If a change is made to the
sales charge structure, historical performance information will be restated
to reflect the maximum initial sales charge currently in effect.
When considering the average annual total return quotations for Class A and C
shares, you should keep in mind that the maximum initial sales charge
reflected in each quotation is a one time fee charged on all direct
purchases, which will have its greatest impact during the early stages of
your investment. This charge will affect actual performance less the longer
you retain your investment in the fund. The average annual total returns for
the indicated periods ended February 28, 1999 were:
INCEPTION DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS A
Arizona Fund 9/01/87 0.68% 4.88% 7.10%
Colorado Fund 9/01/87 0.75% 5.18% 7.34%
Connecticut Fund 4/03/85 1.12% 4.95% 6.74%
Federal Intermediate Fund 9/21/92 2.80% 5.56% --
High Yield Fund 3/18/86 -0.23% 6.12% 7.85%
Indiana Fund 9/01/87 0.74% 4.95% 7.35%
Michigan Fund 7/01/96 1.63% -- --
New Jersey Fund 5/12/88 1.13% 4.99% 7.12%
Oregon Fund 9/01/87 0.62% 4.86% 6.86%
Pennsylvania Fund 12/01/86 0.63% 5.24% 7.27%
Puerto Rico Fund 4/03/85 1.16% 5.20% 4.12%
SINCE INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
CLASS C
Arizona Fund 2.47% 6.17%
Colorado Fund 2.62% 6.62%
Connecticut Fund 3.02% 6.40%
High Yield Fund 1.67% 7.39%
New Jersey Fund 3.06% 6.39%
Oregon Fund 2.55% 6.18%
Pennsylvania Fund 2.44% 6.39%
Puerto Rico Fund 3.04% 6.44%
The following SEC formula was used to calculate these figures:
n
P(1+T) = ERV
where:
P = a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000
T = average annual total return
n = number of years
ERV = ending redeemable value of a hypothetical $1,000
payment made at the beginning of each period at the end
of each period
CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN Like average annual total return, cumulative total
return assumes the maximum initial sales charge is deducted from the initial
$1,000 purchase, and income dividends and capital gain distributions are
reinvested at net asset value. Cumulative total return, however, is based on
the actual return for a specified period rather than on the average return
over the periods indicated above. The cumulative total returns for the
indicated periods ended February 28, 1999, were:
INCEPTION DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS A
Arizona Fund 9/01/87 0.68% 27.54% 98.62%
Colorado Fund 9/01/87 0.75% 28.75% 103.11%
Connecticut Fund 4/03/85 1.12% 26.89% 92.06%
Federal Intermediate Fund 9/21/92 2.80% 31.04% --
High Yield Fund 3/18/86 -0.23% 34.59% 112.92%
Indiana Fund 9/01/87 0.74% 27.30% 103.21%
Michigan Fund 7/01/96 1.63% -- --
New Jersey Fund 5/12/88 1.13% 27.58% 98.96%
Oregon Fund 9/01/87 0.62% 26.76% 94.17%
Pennsylvania Fund 12/01/86 0.63% 29.08% 101.80%
Puerto Rico Fund 4/03/85 28.87% 99.02%
1.16%
SINCE INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS C
Arizona Fund 2.47% 25.79%
Colorado Fund 2.62% 27.85%
Connecticut Fund 3.02% 26.82%
High Yield Fund 1.67% 31.40%
New Jersey Fund 3.06% 26.77%
Oregon Fund 2.55% 25.84%
Pennsylvania Fund 2.44% 26.78%
Puerto Rico Fund 3.04% 27.02%
CURRENT YIELD Current yield shows the income per share earned by the fund.
It is calculated by dividing the net investment income per share earned
during a 30-day base period by the applicable maximum offering price per
share on the last day of the period and annualizing the result. Expenses
accrued for the period include any fees charged to all shareholders of the
class during the base period. The yields for the 30-day period ended February
28, 1999, were:
CLASS A CLASS B CLASS C
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund 3.87% - 3.45%
Colorado Fund 3.95% - 3.53%
Connecticut Fund 3.81% - 3.38%
Federal Intermediate Fund 3.80% - -
High Yield Fund 4.71% 4.56% 4.32%
Indiana Fund 3.89% - -
Michigan Fund 4.55% - -
New Jersey Fund 3.83% - 3.40%
Oregon Fund 3.86% - 3.44%
Pennsylvania Fund 4.03% - 3.61%
Puerto Rico Fund 3.80% - 3.37%
The following SEC formula was used to calculate these figures:
6
Yield = 2 [(A-B + 1) - 1]
cd
where:
a = interest earned during the period
b = expenses accrued for the period (net of reimbursements)
c = the average daily number of shares outstanding during the period that
were entitled to receive dividends
d = the maximum offering price per share on the last day of the period
TAXABLE-EQUIVALENT YIELD The fund also may quote a taxable-equivalent
yield that shows the before-tax yield that would have to be earned from a
taxable investment to equal the yield. Taxable-equivalent yield is
computed by dividing the portion of the yield that is tax-exempt by one
minus the highest applicable combined federal and state income tax rate
and adding the product to the portion of the yield that is not tax-exempt,
if any. The taxable-equivalent yields for the 30-day period ended February
28, 1999 were:
CLASS A CLASS B CLASS C
- -------------------------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund 6.75% - 6.01%
Colorado Fund 6.88% - 6.15%
Connecticut Fund 6.61% - 5.86%
Federal Intermediate Fund 6.29% - -
High Yield Fund 7.80% 7.55% 7.15%
Indiana Fund 6.74% - -
Michigan Fund 7.88% - -
New Jersey Fund 6.77% - 6.01%
Oregon Fund 7.02% - 6.26%
Pennsylvania Fund 6.86% - 6.15%
Puerto Rico Fund 6.29% - 5.58%
As of February 28, 1999, the combined federal and state income tax rate upon
which the taxable-equivalent yield quotations are based were as follows:
COMBINED
RATE1
----------------------------------
Arizona Fund 42.6%
Colorado Fund 42.6%
Connecticut Fund 42.3%
Federal Intermediate 39.6%
Fund
High Yield Fund 39.6%
Indiana Fund 42.3%
Michigan Fund 42.3%
New Jersey Fund 43.4%
Oregon Fund 45.0%
Pennsylvania Fund 41.3%
Puerto Rico Fund 39.6%
1. Based on the maximum combined state and 39.6% federal tax rate.
From time to time, as any changes to the rate become effective,
taxable-equivalent yield quotations advertised by the fund will be updated to
reflect these changes. The fund expects updates may be necessary as tax rates
are changed by federal and state governments. The advantage of tax-free
investments, like the fund, will be enhanced by any tax rate increases.
Therefore, the details of specific tax increases may be used in sales
material for the fund.
CURRENT DISTRIBUTION RATE Current yield and taxable-equivalent yield, which
are calculated according to a formula prescribed by the SEC, are not
indicative of the amounts which were or will be paid to shareholders. Amounts
paid to shareholders are reflected in the quoted current distribution rate or
taxable-equivalent distribution rate. The current distribution rate is
usually computed by annualizing the dividends paid per share by a class
during a certain period and dividing that amount by the current maximum
offering price. The current distribution rate differs from the current yield
computation because it may include distributions to shareholders from sources
other than interest, if any, and is calculated over a different period of
time. The current distribution rates for the 30-day period ended February 28,
1999, were:
CLASS A CLASS B CLASS C
--------------------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund 4.79% - 4.40%
Colorado Fund 4.72% - 4.30%
Connecticut Fund 4.74% - 4.33%
Federal Intermediate 4.31% - -
Fund
High Yield Fund 5.40% 5.04% 4.92%
Indiana Fund 4.87% - -
Michigan Fund 4.56% - -
New Jersey Fund 4.80% - 4.38%
Oregon Fund 4.71% - 4.27%
Pennsylvania Fund 4.80% - 4.37%
Puerto Rico Fund 4.59% - 4.18%
A taxable-equivalent distribution rate shows the taxable distribution rate
equivalent to the current distribution rate. The advertised
taxable-equivalent distribution rate will reflect the most current federal
and state tax rates available to the fund. The taxable-equivalent
distribution rates for the 30-day period ended February 28, 1999, were:
CLASS A CLASS B CLASS C
---------------------------------------------------------
Arizona Fund 8.35% - 7.67%
Colorado Fund 8.23% - 7.49%
Connecticut Fund 8.22% - 7.51%
Federal Intermediate 7.14% - -
Fund
High Yield Fund 8.94% 8.34% 8.15%
Indiana Fund 8.43% - -
Michigan Fund 7.90% - -
New Jersey Fund 8.49% - 7.75%
Oregon Fund 8.57% - 7.77%
Pennsylvania Fund 8.18% - 7.44%
Puerto Rico Fund 7.60% - 6.92%
VOLATILITY Occasionally statistics may be used to show the fund's volatility
or risk. Measures of volatility or risk are generally used to compare the
fund's net asset value or performance to a market index. One measure of
volatility is beta. Beta is the volatility of a fund relative to the total
market, as represented by an index considered representative of the types of
securities in which the fund invests. A beta of more than 1.00 indicates
volatility greater than the market and a beta of less than 1.00 indicates
volatility less than the market. Another measure of volatility or risk is
standard deviation. Standard deviation is used to measure variability of net
asset value or total return around an average over a specified period of
time. The idea is that greater volatility means greater risk undertaken in
achieving performance.
OTHER PERFORMANCE QUOTATIONS The fund also may quote the performance of
shares without a sales charge. Sales literature and advertising may quote a
cumulative total return, average annual total return and other measures of
performance with the substitution of net asset value for the public offering
price.
The fund may include in its advertising or sales material information
relating to investment goals and performance results of funds belonging to
the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Franklin Resources, Inc. is the parent
company of the advisors and underwriter of the Franklin Templeton Group of
Funds.
COMPARISONS To help you better evaluate how an investment in the fund may
satisfy your investment goal, advertisements and other materials about the
fund may discuss certain measures of fund performance as reported by various
financial publications. Materials also may compare performance (as calculated
above) to performance as reported by other investments, indices, and
averages. These comparisons may include, but are not limited to, the
following examples:
o Salomon Brothers Broad Bond Index or its component indices - measures
yield, price and total return for Treasury, agency, corporate and mortgage
bonds.
o Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index or its component indices - measures
yield, price and total return for Treasury, agency, corporate, mortgage and
Yankee bonds.
o Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index or its component indices - measures
yield, price and total return for the municipal bond market.
o Bond Buyer 20 Index - an index of municipal bond yields based upon yields
of 20 general obligation bonds maturing in 20 years.
o Bond Buyer 40 Index - an index composed of the yield to maturity of 40
bonds. The index attempts to track the new-issue market as closely as
possible, so it changes bonds twice a month, adding all new bonds that meet
certain requirements and deleting an equivalent number according to their
secondary market trading activity. As a result, the average par call date,
average maturity date, and average coupon rate can and have changed over
time. The average maturity generally has been about 29-30 years.
o Financial publications: The WALL STREET JOURNAL, and BUSINESS WEEK,
FINANCIAL WORLD, FORBES, FORTUNE, and MONEY magazines - provide performance
statistics over specified time periods.
o Salomon Brothers Composite High Yield Index or its component indices -
measures yield, price and total return for the Long-Term High-Yield Index,
Intermediate-Term High-Yield Index, and Long-Term Utility High-Yield Index.
o Historical data supplied by the research departments of CS First Boston
Corporation, the J. P. Morgan companies, Salomon Brothers, Merrill Lynch,
Lehman Brothers and Bloomberg L.P.
o Morningstar - information published by Morningstar, Inc., including
Morningstar proprietary mutual fund ratings. The ratings reflect
Morningstar's assessment of the historical risk-adjusted performance of a
fund over specified time periods relative to other funds within its
category.
o Lipper - Mutual Fund Performance Analysis and Lipper - Fixed Income Fund
Performance Analysis - measure total return and average current yield for
the mutual fund industry and rank individual mutual fund performance over
specified time periods, assuming reinvestment of all distributions,
exclusive of any applicable sales charges.
o Savings and Loan Historical Interest Rates -
o as published in the U.S. Savings & Loan League Fact Book.
o Consumer Price Index (or Cost of Living Index), published by the U.S.
Bureau of Labor Statistics - a statistical measure of change, over time, in
the price of goods and services in major expenditure groups.
o CDA Mutual Fund Report, published by CDA Investment Technologies, Inc. -
analyzes price, current yield, risk, total return, and average rate of
return (average annual compounded growth rate) over specified time periods
for the mutual fund industry.
o Standard & Poor's Bond Indices - measure yield and price of corporate,
municipal, and government bonds.
From time to time, advertisements or information for the fund may include a
discussion of certain attributes or benefits to be derived from an investment
in the fund. The advertisements or information may include symbols,
headlines, or other material that highlights or summarizes the information
discussed in more detail in the communication.
Advertisements or sales material issued by the fund also may discuss or be
based upon information in a recent issue of the Special Report on Tax Freedom
Day published by the Tax Foundation, a Washington, D.C. based nonprofit
research and public education organization. The report illustrates, among
other things, the annual amount of time the average taxpayer works to satisfy
his or her tax obligations to the federal, state and local taxing authorities.
Advertisements or information also may compare the fund's performance to the
return on certificates of deposit (CDs) or other investments. You should be
aware, however, that an investment in the fund involves the risk of
fluctuation of principal value, a risk generally not present in an investment
in a CD issued by a bank. For example, as the general level of interest rates
rise, the value of the fund's fixed-income investments, as well as the value
of its shares that are based upon the value of such portfolio investments,
can be expected to decrease. Conversely, when interest rates decrease, the
value of the fund's shares can be expected to increase. CDs are frequently
insured by an agency of the U.S. government. An investment in the fund is not
insured by any federal, state or private entity.
In assessing comparisons of performance, you should keep in mind that the
composition of the investments in the reported indices and averages is not
identical to the fund's portfolio, the indices and averages are generally
unmanaged, and the items included in the calculations of the averages may not
be identical to the formula used by the fund to calculate its figures. In
addition, there can be no assurance that the fund will continue its
performance as compared to these other averages.
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fund may help you achieve various investment goals such as accumulating
money for retirement, saving for a down payment on a home, college costs and
other long-term goals. The Franklin College Costs Planner may help you in
determining how much money must be invested on a monthly basis in order to
have a projected amount available in the future to fund a child's college
education. (Projected college cost estimates are based upon current costs
published by the College Board.) The Franklin Retirement Planning Guide leads
you through the steps to start a retirement savings program. Of course, an
investment in the fund cannot guarantee that these goals will be met.
The fund is a member of the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds, one of the
largest mutual fund organizations in the U.S., and may be considered in a
program for diversification of assets. Founded in 1947, Franklin is one of
the oldest mutual fund organizations and now services more than 4 million
shareholder accounts. In 1992, Franklin, a leader in managing fixed-income
mutual funds and an innovator in creating domestic equity funds, joined
forces with Templeton, a pioneer in international investing. The Mutual
Series team, known for its value-driven approach to domestic equity
investing, became part of the organization four years later. Together, the
Franklin Templeton Group has over $216 billion in assets under management for
approximately 7 million U.S. based mutual fund shareholder and other
accounts. The Franklin Templeton Group of Funds offers 114 U.S. based open-end
investment companies to the public. The fund may identify itself by its
NASDAQ symbol or CUSIP number.
Franklin is a leader in the tax-free mutual fund industry and manages more
than $51 billion in municipal security assets for over three quarters of a
million investors. According to Research and Ratings Review, Franklin had one
of the largest staffs of municipal securities analysts in the industry, as of
June 30, 1998.
Under current tax laws, municipal securities remain one of the few
investments offering the potential for tax-free income. In 1999, taxes could
cost almost $47 on every $100 earned from a fully taxable investment (based
on the maximum combined 39.6% federal tax rate and the highest state tax rate
of 12% for 1999). Franklin tax-free funds, however, offer tax relief through
a professionally managed portfolio of tax-free securities selected based on
their yield, quality and maturity. An investment in a Franklin tax-free fund
can provide you with the potential to earn income free of federal taxes and,
depending on the fund, state and local taxes as well, while supporting state
and local public projects. Franklin tax-free funds also may provide tax-free
compounding, when dividends are reinvested. An investment in Franklin's
tax-free funds can grow more rapidly than similar taxable investments.
Municipal securities are generally considered to be creditworthy, second in
quality only to securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government and
its agencies. The market price of municipal securities, however, may
fluctuate. This fluctuation will have a direct impact on the net asset value
of the fund's shares.
Currently, there are more mutual funds than there are stocks listed on the
New York Stock Exchange. While many of them have similar investment goals, no
two are exactly alike. Shares of the fund are generally sold through
securities dealers, whose investment representatives are experienced
professionals who can offer advice on the type of investments suitable to
your unique goals and needs, as well as the risks associated with such
investments.
The Information Services & Technology division of Franklin Resources, Inc.
(Resources) established a Year 2000 Project Team in 1996. This team has
already begun making necessary software changes to help the computer systems
that service the fund and its shareholders to be Year 2000 compliant. After
completing these modifications, comprehensive tests are conducted in one of
Resources' U.S. test labs to verify their effectiveness. Resources continues
to seek reasonable assurances from all major hardware, software or
data-services suppliers that they will be Year 2000 compliant on a timely
basis. Resources is also beginning to develop a contingency plan, including
identification of those mission critical systems for which it is practical to
develop a contingency plan. However, in an operation as complex and
geographically distributed as Resources' business, the alternatives to use of
normal systems, especially mission critical systems, or supplies of
electricity or long distance voice and data lines are limited.
DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS
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MUNICIPAL BOND RATINGS
MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. (MOODY'S)
Aaa: Municipal bonds rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt-edged." Interest payments are protected by a large or exceptionally
stable margin, and principal is secure. While the various protective elements
are likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to
impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
Aa: Municipal bonds rated Aa are judged to be high quality by all standards.
Together with the Aaa group, they comprise what are generally known as
high-grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large, fluctuation of protective elements may be of
greater amplitude, or there may be other elements present that make the
long-term risks appear somewhat larger.
A: Municipal bonds rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and
are considered upper medium-grade obligations. Factors giving security to
principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present
that suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Baa: Municipal bonds rated Baa are considered medium-grade obligations. They
are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and
principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any
great length of time. These bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics
and, in fact, have speculative characteristics as well.
Ba: Municipal bonds rated Ba are judged to have predominantly speculative
elements and their future cannot be considered well assured. Often the
protection of interest and principal payments may be very moderate and,
thereby, not well safeguarded during both good and bad times over the future.
Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class.
B: Municipal bonds rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable
investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of
other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
Caa: Municipal bonds rated Caa are of poor standing. These issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal
or interest.
Ca: Municipal bonds rated Ca represent obligations that are speculative to a
high degree. These issues are often in default or have other marked
shortcomings.
C: Municipal bonds rated C are the lowest-rated class of bonds and issues so
rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining
any real investment standing.
Con.(-): Municipal bonds for which the security depends upon the completion
of some act or the fulfillment of some condition are rated conditionally.
These are bonds secured by (a) earnings of projects under construction, (b)
earnings of projects unseasoned in operation experience, (c) rentals that
begin when facilities are completed, or (d) payments to which some other
limiting condition attaches. Parenthetical rating denotes probable credit
stature upon the completion of construction or the elimination of the basis
of the condition.
STANDARD & POOR'S CORPORATION (S&P)
AAA: Municipal bonds rated AAA are the highest-grade obligations. They
possess the ultimate degree of protection as to principal and interest. In
the market, they move with interest rates and, hence, provide the maximum
safety on all counts.
AA: Municipal bonds rated AA also qualify as high-grade obligations, and in
the majority of instances differ from AAA issues only in a small degree.
Here, too, prices move with the long-term money market.
A: Municipal bonds rated A are regarded as upper medium-grade. They have
considerable investment strength but are not entirely free from adverse
effects of changes in economic and trade conditions. Interest and principal
are regarded as safe. They predominantly reflect money rates in their market
behavior but also, to some extent, economic conditions.
BBB: Municipal bonds rated BBB are regarded as having an adequate capacity to
pay principal and interest. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate protection
parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more
likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay principal and interest for bonds
in this category than for bonds in the A category.
BB, B, CCC, CC: Municipal bonds rated BB, B, CCC and CC are regarded, on
balance, as predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity
to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the
obligations. BB indicates the lowest degree of speculation and CC the highest
degree of speculation. While these bonds will likely have some quality and
protective characteristics, they are outweighed by large uncertainties or
major risk exposures to adverse conditions.
C: This rating is reserved for income bonds on which no interest is being
paid.
D: Debt rated "D" is in default and payment of interest and/or repayment of
principal is in arrears.
Plus (+) or minus (-): The ratings from "AA" to "CCC" may be modified by the
addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within the major
rating categories.
FITCH INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. (FITCH)
AAA: Municipal bonds rated AAA are considered to be investment grade and of
the highest credit quality. The obligor has an exceptionally strong ability
to pay interest and repay principal that is unlikely to be affected by
reasonably foreseeable events.
AA: Municipal bonds rated AA are considered to be investment grade and of
very high credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay
principal is very strong although not quite as strong as bonds rated AAA and
not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable future developments.
A: Municipal bonds rated A are considered to be investment grade and of high
credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is
considered to be strong, but may be more vulnerable to adverse changes in
economic conditions and circumstances than bonds with higher ratings.
BBB: Municipal bonds rated BBB are considered to be investment grade and of
satisfactory credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay
principal is considered adequate. Adverse changes in economic conditions and
circumstances, however, are more likely to have an adverse impact on these
bonds, and therefore impair timely payment. The likelihood that the ratings
of these bonds will fall below investment grade is higher than for bonds with
higher ratings.
BB: Municipal bonds rated BB are considered speculative. The obligor's
ability to pay interest and repay principal may be affected over time by
adverse economic changes. Business and financial alternatives can be
identified, however, that could assist the obligor in satisfying its debt
service requirements.
B: Municipal bonds rated B are considered highly speculative. While bonds in
this class are currently meeting debt service requirements, the probability
of continued timely payment of principal and interest reflects the obligor's
limited margin of safety and the need for reasonable business and economic
activity throughout the life of the issue.
CCC: Municipal bonds rated CCC have certain identifiable characteristics
which, if not remedied, may lead to default. The ability to meet obligations
requires an advantageous business and economic environment.
CC: Municipal bonds rated CC are minimally protected. Default in payment of
interest and/or principal seems probable over time.
C: Municipal bonds rated C are in imminent default in the payment of interest
or principal.
DDD, DD and D: Municipal bonds rated DDD, DD and D are in default on interest
and/or principal payments. Such bonds are extremely speculative and should be
valued on the basis of their ultimate recovery value in liquidation or
reorganization of the obligor. DDD represents the highest potential for
recovery while D represents the lowest potential for recovery.
Plus (+) or minus (-) signs are used with a rating symbol to indicate the
relative position of a credit within the rating category. Plus or minus signs
are not used with the AAA, DDD, DD or D categories.
MUNICIPAL NOTE RATINGS
MOODY'S
Moody's ratings for state, municipal and other short-term obligations will be
designated Moody's Investment Grade (MIG). This distinction is in recognition
of the differences between short-term credit risk and long-term risk. Factors
affecting the liquidity of the borrower are uppermost in importance in
short-term borrowing; factors of the first importance in long-term borrowing
risk are of lesser importance in the short run. Symbols used will be as
follows:
MIG 1: Notes are of the best quality enjoying strong protection from
established cash flows of funds for their servicing or from established and
broad-based access to the market for refinancing, or both.
MIG 2: Notes are of high quality, with margins of protection ample, although
not so large as in the preceding group.
MIG 3: Notes are of favorable quality, with all security elements accounted
for, but lacking the undeniable strength of the preceding grades. Market
access for refinancing, in particular, is likely to be less well established.
MIG 4: Notes are of adequate quality, carrying specific risk but having
protection and not distinctly or predominantly speculative.
S&P
Until June 29, 1984, S&P used the same rating symbols for notes and bonds.
After June 29, 1984, for new municipal note issues due in three years or
less, the ratings below will usually be assigned. Notes maturing beyond three
years will most likely receive a bond rating of the type recited above.
SP-1: Issues carrying this designation have a very strong or strong capacity
to pay principal and interest. Issues determined to possess overwhelming
safety characteristics will be given a "plus" (+) designation.
SP-2: Issues carrying this designation have a satisfactory capacity to pay
principal and interest.
COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
MOODY'S
Moody's commercial paper ratings, which are also applicable to municipal
paper investments, are opinions of the ability of issuers to repay punctually
their promissory obligations not having an original maturity in excess of
nine months. Moody's employs the following designations for both short-term
debt and commercial paper, all judged to be investment grade, to indicate the
relative repayment capacity of rated issuers:
P-1 (Prime-1): Superior capacity for repayment.
P-2 (Prime-2): Strong capacity for repayment.
S&P
S&P's ratings are a current assessment of the likelihood of timely payment of
debt having an original maturity of no more than 365 days. Ratings are graded
into four categories, ranging from "A" for the highest quality obligations to
"D" for the lowest. Issues within the "A" category are delineated with the
numbers 1, 2 and 3 to indicate the relative degree of safety, as follows:
A-1: This designation indicates the degree of safety regarding timely payment
is very strong. A "plus" (+) designation indicates an even stronger
likelihood of timely payment.
A-2: Capacity for timely payment on issues with this designation is strong.
The relative degree of safety, however, is not as overwhelming as for issues
designated A-1.
A-3: Issues carrying this designation have a satisfactory capacity for timely
payment. They are, however, somewhat more vulnerable to the adverse effects
of changes in circumstances than obligations carrying the higher designations.
FITCH
Fitch's short-term ratings apply to debt obligations that are payable on
demand or have original maturities of generally up to three years, including
commercial paper, certificates of deposit, medium-term notes, and municipal
and investment notes. The short-term rating places greater emphasis than a
long-term rating on the existence of liquidity necessary to meet the issuer's
obligations in a timely manner.
F-1+: Exceptionally strong credit quality. Regarded as having the strongest
degree of assurance for timely payment.
F-1: Very strong credit quality. Reflect an assurance of timely payment only
slightly less in degree than issues rated F-1+.
F-2: Good credit quality. A satisfactory degree of assurance for timely
payment, but the margin of safety is not as great as for issues assigned F-1+
and F-1 ratings.
F-3: Fair credit quality. Have characteristics suggesting that the degree of
assurance for timely payment is adequate; however, near-term adverse changes
could cause these securities to be rated below investment grade.
F-5: Weak credit quality. Have characteristics suggesting a minimal degree of
assurance for timely payment and are vulnerable to near-term adverse changes
in financial and economic conditions.
D: Default. Actual or imminent payment default.
LOC: The symbol LOC indicates that the rating is based on a letter of credit
issued by a commercial bank.
STATE TAX TREATMENT
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FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST
FILE NOS. 02-94222
& 811-4149
FORM N-1A
PART C
OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 23. EXHIBITS.
The following exhibits are incorporated by reference to the previously
filed document indicated below, except as noted:
(a) AGREEMENT AND DECLARATION OF TRUST
(i) Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated October 26,
1984
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(ii) Certificate of Amendment of Agreement and Declaration of Trust
dated July 16, 1991
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(iii)Certificate of Amendment of Agreement and Declaration of Trust
dated April 21, 1992
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(iv) Certificate of Amendment of Agreement and Declaration of Trust
dated December 14, 1993
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(v) Certificate of Amendment of Agreement and Declaration of Trust
dated March 21, 1995
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(B) BY-LAWS
(i) By-Laws
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(ii) Certificate of Amendment of By-Laws dated December 8, 1987
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(iii)Amendment to By-Laws dated April 21, 1992
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(iv) Certificate of Amendment of By-Laws dated December 14, 1993
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(v) Amendment to By-Laws dated January 18, 1994
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(C) INSTRUMENTS DEFINING RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS
Not Applicable
(D) INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACTS
(i) Management Agreement between Registrant and Franklin
Investment Advisory Services, Inc. on behalf of Franklin
Connecticut Tax-Free Income Fund dated October 1, 1996
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 24 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: June 27, 1997
(ii) Management Agreement between Registrant and Franklin Advisers,
Inc. dated December 1, 1986
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(iii)Amendment to Management Agreement between Registrant and
Franklin Advisers, Inc. dated August 1, 1995
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 22 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: March 14, 1996
(E) UNDERWRITING CONTRACTS
(i) Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement between Registrant
and Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc. dated March 29, 1995
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 22 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: March 14, 1996
(ii) Form of Dealer Agreements effective as of March 1, 1998
between Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc. and Securities
Dealers
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 26 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: December 23, 1998
(F) BONUS OR PROFIT SHARING CONTRACTS
Not Applicable
(G) CUSTODIAN AGREEMENTS
(i) Master Custody Agreement between Registrant and Bank of New
York dated February 16, 1996
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 22 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: March 14, 1996
(ii) Terminal Link Agreement between Registrant and Bank of New
York dated February 16, 1996
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 22 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: March 14, 1996
(iii)Amendment dated May 7, 1997 to Master Custody Agreement
between Registrant and Bank of New York dated February 16, 1996
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 25 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 29, 1998
(iv) Amendment dated February 27, 1998 to Master Custody Agreement
between Registrant and Bank of New York dated February 16, 1996
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 26 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: December 23, 1998
(v) Foreign Custody Manager Agreement made as of July 30, 1998,
effective as of February 27, 1998 on behalf of each Investment
Company listed on Schedule 1
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 26 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: December 23, 1998
(h) OTHER MATERIAL CONTRACTS
(i) Agreement between Registrant and Financial Guaranty Insurance
Company dated March 8, 1985
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(ii) Amendment to Agreement between Registrant and Financial
Guaranty Insurance Company dated November 24, 1992
Registrant: Franklin New York Tax-Free Trust
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 12
to Registration Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-7785
Filing Date: April 25, 1995
(iii)Mutual Fund Agreement between Registrant and Financial
Guaranty Insurance Company dated April 30, 1993
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 25 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 29, 1998
(iv) Subcontract for Fund Administrative Services dated October 1,
1996 and Amendment thereto dated March 11, 1998 between
Franklin Advisers, Inc. and Franklin Templeton Services Inc.
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 25 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 29, 1998
(v) Subcontract for Fund Administrative Services dated October 1,
1996 and Amendment thereto dated July 1, 1997 between Franklin
Investment Advisory Services, Inc. and Franklin Templeton
Services, Inc.
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 25 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 29, 1998
(I) LEGAL OPINION
(i) Opinion and Consent of Counsel dated April 17, 1998
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 25 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 29, 1998
(J) OTHER OPINIONS
(i) Consent of Independent Auditors
(k) OMITTED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Not Applicable
(L) INITIAL CAPITAL AGREEMENTS
(i) Letter of Understanding dated September 21, 1992
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(ii) Letter of Understanding dated April 12, 1995
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(m) RULE 12B-1 PLAN
(i) Class I shares Distribution Plans pursuant to Rule 12b-1 on
behalf of the following fund:
Dated June 1, 1996
Franklin Michigan Tax-Free Income Fund
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 24 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: June 27, 1997
(ii) Class I shares Distribution Plans pursuant to Rule 12b-1 on
behalf of the following funds:
Dated July 1, 1993:
Franklin Arizona Insured Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Federal Intermediate-Term Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Florida Insured Tax-Free Income Fund
Dated May 1, 1994:
Franklin Alabama Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Arizona Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Colorado Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Connecticut Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Florida Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Georgia Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Indiana Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Insured Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Kentucky Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Louisiana Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Maryland Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Massachusetts Insured Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Michigan Insured Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Minnesota Insured Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Missouri Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin New Jersey Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin North Carolina Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Ohio Insured Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Oregon Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Pennsylvania Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Puerto Rico Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Texas Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Virginia Tax-Free Income Fund
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 28, 1995
(iii)Class II shares Distribution Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 on
behalf of the following funds:
Dated March 30, 1995:
Franklin Alabama Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Arizona Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Colorado Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Connecticut Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Florida Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Georgia Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Louisiana Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Maryland Tax-Free Income Fund- Class II
Franklin Massachusetts Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Michigan Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Minnesota Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Missouri Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin New Jersey Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin North Carolina Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Ohio Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Oregon Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Pennsylvania Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Puerto Rico Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Texas Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Franklin Virginia Tax-Free Income Fund - Class II
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 22 to
Registration Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: March 14, 1996
(iv) Distribution Plan dated October 16, 1998 pursuant to Rule
12b-1 between the Registrant on behalf of Franklin High Yield
Tax-Free Income Fund - Class B and Franklin/Templeton
Distributors, Inc.
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 26 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: December 23, 1998
(N) (EX-27) FINANCIAL DATA SCHEDULE
(O) RULE 18F-3 PLAN
(i) Multiple Class Plan dated October 19, 1995
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 25 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 2-94222
Filing Date: April 29, 1998
(ii) Multiple Class Plan dated March 19, 1998 on behalf of Franklin
High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund
(p) POWER OF ATTORNEY
(i) Power of Attorney dated March 18, 1999
(ii) Certificate of Secretary dated March 18, 1999
(27) FINANCIAL DATA SCHEDULE
(1) Franklin Arizona Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(2) Franklin Arizona Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(3) Franklin Colorado Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(4) Franklin Colorado Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(5) Franklin Connecticut Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(6) Franklin Connecticut Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(7) Franklin High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(8) Franklin High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund - Class B
(9) Franklin High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(10) Franklin Indiana Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(11) Franklin Michigan Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(12) Franklin New Jersey Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(13) Franklin New Jersey Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(14) Franklin Oregon Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(15) Franklin Oregon Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(16) Franklin Pennsylvania Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(17) Franklin Pennsylvania Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(18) Franklin Puerto Rico Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(19) Franklin Puerto Rico Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(20) Franklin Federal Intermediate-Term Tax-Free Income Fund -Class
A
(21) Franklin Arizona Insured Tax-Free Income Fund
(22) Franklin Florida Insured Tax-Free Income Fund
(23) Franklin Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(24) Franklin Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(25) Franklin Massachusetts Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(26) Franklin Massachusetts Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(27) Franklin Michigan Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(28) Franklin Michigan Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(29) Franklin Minnesota Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(30) Franklin Minnesota Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(31) Franklin Ohio Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(32) Franklin Ohio Insured Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(33) Franklin Alabama Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(34) Franklin Alabama Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(35) Franklin Florida Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(36) Franklin Florida Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(37) Franklin Georgia Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(38) Franklin Georgia Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(39) Franklin Kentucky Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(40) Franklin Louisiana Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(41) Franklin Louisiana Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(42) Franklin Maryland Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(43) Franklin Maryland Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(44) Franklin Missouri Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(45) Franklin Missouri Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(46) Franklin North Carolina Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(47) Franklin North Carolina Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(48) Franklin Texas Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(49) Franklin Texas Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
(50) Franklin Virginia Tax-Free Income Fund - Class A
(51) Franklin Virginia Tax-Free Income Fund - Class C
ITEM 24. PERSONS CONTROLLED BY OR UNDER COMMON CONTROL WITH THE FUND
None
ITEM 25. INDEMNIFICATION
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act
of 1933 may be permitted to trustees, officers and controlling persons of the
Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Registrant
has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange
Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the
Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for
indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the
Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a trustee, officer or controlling
person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or
proceeding) is asserted by such trustee, officer or controlling person in
connection with securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in
the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling
precedent, submit to a Court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether
such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act
and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
ITEM 26. BUSINESS AND OTHER CONNECTIONS OF THE INVESTMENT ADVISER
The officers and trustees of the Registrant's managers also serve as officers
and/or trustees for (1) the manager's corporate parent, Franklin Resources,
Inc., and/or (2) other investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group
of Funds. In addition Mr. Charles B. Johnson was formerly a director of
General Host Corporation. For additional information please see Part B and
Schedules A and D of Form ADV of the Funds' Investment Managers, Franklin
Advisers, Inc. (SEC File 801-26292) and Franklin Investment Advisory
Services, Inc. (SEC File 801-52152), incorporated herein by reference, which
sets forth the officers and trustees of the investment managers and
information as to any business, profession, vocation or employment of a
substantial nature engaged in by those officers and trustees during the past
two years.
ITEM 27. PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITERS
a) Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc., ("Distributors") also acts as
principal underwriter of shares of:
Franklin Asset Allocation Fund
Franklin California Tax-Free Income Fund, Inc.
Franklin California Tax-Free Trust
Franklin Custodian Funds, Inc.
Franklin Equity Fund
Franklin Federal Money Fund
Franklin Federal Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Floating Rate Trust
Franklin Gold Fund
Franklin High Income Trust
Franklin Investors Securities Trust
Franklin Managed Trust
Franklin Money Fund
Franklin Mutual Series Fund Inc.
Franklin Municipal Securities Trust
Franklin New York Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin New York Tax-Free Trust
Franklin Real Estate Securities Trust
Franklin Strategic Mortgage Portfolio
Franklin Strategic Series
Franklin Tax-Exempt Money Fund
Franklin Templeton Fund Allocator Series
Franklin Templeton Global Trust
Franklin Templeton International Trust
Franklin Templeton Money Fund Trust
Franklin Value Investors Trust
Franklin Valuemark Funds
Institutional Fiduciary Trust
Templeton American Trust, Inc.
Templeton Capital Accumulator Fund, Inc.
Templeton Developing Markets Trust
Templeton Funds, Inc.
Templeton Global Investment Trust
Templeton Global Opportunities Trust
Templeton Global Real Estate Fund
Templeton Global Smaller Companies Fund, Inc.
Templeton Growth Fund, Inc.
Templeton Income Trust
Templeton Institutional Funds, Inc.
Templeton Variable Products Series Fund
ITEM 28. LOCATION OF ACCOUNTS AND RECORDS
The accounts, books or other documents required to be maintained by Section
31 (a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 are kept by the Registrant or
its shareholder services agent, Franklin/Templeton Investors Services, Inc.,
both of whose address is 777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA. 94404.
ITEM 29. MANAGEMENT SERVICES
There are no management-related service contracts not discussed in Part A or
Part B.
ITEM 30. UNDERTAKINGS
Not Applicable
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment
Company Act of 1940, the Registrant has duly caused this Registration
Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly
authorized in the City of San Mateo and the State of California, on the 28th
day of April, 1999.
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST
By: RUPERT H. JOHNSON, JR.*
Rupert H. Johnson, Jr.
President
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Registration
Amendment has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities
and on the dates indicated:
RUPERT H. JOHNSON, JR.* Trustee and Principal
Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. Executive Officer
Dated: April 28, 1999
MARTIN L. FLANAGAN* Principal Financial Officer
Martin L. Flanagan Dated: April 28, 1999
DIOMEDES LOO-TAM* Principal Accounting Officer
Diomedes Loo-Tam Dated: April 28, 1999
FRANK H. ABBOTT, III* Trustee
Frank H. Abbott, III Dated: April 28, 1999
HARRIS J. ASHTON* Trustee
Harris J. Ashton Dated: April 28, 1999
S. JOSEPH FORTUNATO* Trustee
S. Joseph Fortunato Dated: April 28, 1999
EDITH E. HOLIDAY* Trustee
Edith E. Holiday Dated: April 28, 1999
CHARLES B. JOHNSON* Trustee
Charles B. Johnson Dated: April 28, 19998
FRANK W. T. LAHAYE* Trustee
Frank W. T. LaHaye Dated: April 28, 1999
GORDON S. MACKLIN* Trustee
Gordon S. Macklin Dated: April 28, 1999
*By /s/ Leiann Nuzum, Attorney-in-Fact
(Pursuant to Power of Attorney filed herewith)
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
EXHIBITS INDEX
EXHIBIT NO. DESCRIPTION LOCATION
EX-99.a(i) Restated Agreement and Declaration of *
Trust dated October 26, 1984
EX-99.a(ii) Certificate of Amendment of Agreement and *
Declaration of Trust dated July 16, 1991
EX-99.a(iii) Certificate of Amendment of Agreement and *
Declaration of Trust dated April 21, 1992
EX-99.a(iv) Certificate of Amendment of Agreement and *
Declaration of Trust dated December 14,
1993
EX-99.a(v) Certificate of Amendment of Agreement and *
Declaration of Trust dated March 21, 1995
EX-99.b(i) By-Laws *
EX-99.b(ii) Certificate of Amendment of By-Laws dated *
December 8,1987
EX-99.b(iii) Amendment to By-Laws dated April 21, 1992 *
EX.99.b(iv) Certificate of Amendment of By-Laws dated *
December 14, 1993
EX-99.b(v) Certificate of Secretary dated February *
28, 1994
EX-99.d(i) Management Agreement between Registrant *
and Franklin Investment Advisory
Services, Inc. on behalf of Franklin
Connecticut Tax-Free Income Fund dated
October 1, 1996
EX-99.d(ii) Management Agreement between Registrant *
and Franklin Advisers, Inc. dated
December 1, 1986
EX-99.d(iii) Amendment to Management Agreement between *
Registrant and Franklin Advisers, Inc.
dated August 1, 1995
EX-99.e(i) Amended and Restated Distribution *
Agreement between Registrant and
Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc.
dated March 29, 1995
EX-99.e(ii) Dealer Agreements Effective as of March *
1, 1998 between Franklin/Templeton
Distributors, Inc. and securities dealers
EX-99.g(i) Master Custody Agreement between *
Registrant and Bank of New York dated
February 16, 1996
EX-99.g(ii) Terminal Link Agreement between *
Registrant and Bank of New York dated
February 16, 1996
EX-99.g(iii) Amendment dated May 7, 1997 to Master *
Custody Agreement between Registrant and
Bank of New York dated February 16, 1996
EX-99.g(iv) Amendment dated February 27, 1998 to *
Master Custody Agreement between
Registrant and Bank of New York dated
February 16, 1996
EX-99.g(v) Foreign Custody Manager Agreement made as *
of July 30, 1998, effective as of
February 27, 1998 on behalf of each
Investment Company listed on Schedule 1
EX-99.h(i) Agreement between Registrant and *
Financial Guaranty Insurance Company
dated March 8, 1985
EX-99.h(ii) Amendment to Agreement between *
Registrant and Financial Guaranty
Insurance Company dated November 24, 1992
EX-99.h(iii) Mutual Fund Agreement between Registrant *
and Financial Guaranty Insurance Company
dated April 30, 1993
EX-99.h(iv) Subcontract for Fund Administrative *
Services dated October 1, 1996 and
Amendment thereto dated March 11, 1998
between Franklin Advisers, Inc. and
Franklin Templeton Services Inc.
EX-99.h(v) Subcontract for Fund Administrative *
Services dated October 1, 1996 and
Amendment thereto dated July 1, 1997
between Franklin Investment Advisory
Services, Inc. and Franklin Templeton
Services, Inc.
EX-99.i(i) Opinion and Consent of Counsel dated *
April 17, 1998
EX-99.j(i) Consent of Independent Auditors Attached
EX-99.l(i) Letter of Understanding dated *
September 21, 1992
EX-99.l(ii) Letter of Understanding dated April 12, *
1994
EX-99.m(i) Class I Shares Distribution Plan pursuant *
to Rule 12b-1 on behalf of Franklin
Michigan Tax-Free Income Fund dated June
1, 1996
EX-99.m(ii) Class I Shares Distribution Plans *
pursuant to Rule 12b-1 dated July 1, 1993
and May 1, 1994
EX-99.m(iii) Class II Shares Distribution Plan *
pursuant to Rule 12b-1 dated March 30,
1995
EX-99.m(iv) Distribution Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 *
between the Registrant on behalf of
Franklin High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund
- Class B and Franklin/Templeton
Distributors, Inc.
EX-99.o(i) Multiple Class Plan dated October 19, 1995 *
EX-99.o(ii) Multiple Class Plan on behalf of Franklin Attached
High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund
EX-99.p(i) Power of Attorney dated March 19, 1998 Attached
EX-99.p(ii) Certificate of Secretary dated March 19, Attached
1998
EX-27. Financial Data Schedule
(1) Franklin Arizona Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class A
(2) Franklin Arizona Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class C
(3) Franklin Colorado Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class A
(4) Franklin Colorado Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class C
(5) Franklin Connecticut Tax-Free Income Fund Attached
- Class A
(6) Franklin Connecticut Tax-Free Income Fund Attached
- Class C
(7) Franklin High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund Attached
- Class A
(8) Franklin High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund Attached
- Class B
(9) Franklin High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund Attached
- Class C
(10) Franklin Indiana Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class A
(11) Franklin Michigan Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class A
(12) Franklin New Jersey Tax-Free Income Fund Attached
- Class A
(13) Franklin New Jersey Tax-Free Income Fund Attached
- Class C
(14) Franklin Oregon Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class A
(15) Franklin Oregon Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class C
(16) Franklin Pennsylvania Tax-Free Income Attached
Fund - Class A
(17) Franklin Pennsylvania Tax-Free Income Attached
Fund - Class C
(18) Franklin Puerto Rico Tax-Free Income Fund Attached
- Class A
(19) Franklin Puerto Rico Tax-Free Income Fund Attached
- Class C
(20) Franklin Federal Intermediate-Term Attached
Tax-Free Income Fund -Class A
(21) Franklin Arizona Insured Tax-Free Income Attached
Fund
(22) Franklin Florida Insured Tax-Free Income Attached
Fund
(23) Franklin Insured Tax-Free Income Fund Attached
Class A
(24) Franklin Insured Tax-Free Income Fund Attached
Class C
(25) Franklin Massachusetts Insured Tax-Free Attached
Income Fund - Class A
(26) Franklin Massachusetts Insured Tax-Free Attached
Income Fund - Class C
(27) Franklin Michigan Insured Tax-Free Income Attached
Fund - Class A
(28) Franklin Michigan Insured Tax-Free Income Attached
Fund - Class C
(29) Franklin Minnesota Insured Tax-Free Attached
Income Fund - Class A
(30) Franklin Minnesota Insured Tax-Free Attached
Income Fund - Class C
(31) Franklin Ohio Insured Tax-Free Income Attached
Fund - Class A
(32) Franklin Ohio Insured Tax-Free Income Attached
Fund - Class C
(33) Franklin Alabama Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class A
(34) Franklin Alabama Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class C
(35) Franklin Florida Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class A
(36) Franklin Florida Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class C
(37) Franklin Georgia Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class A
(38) Franklin Georgia Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class C
(39) Franklin Kentucky Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class A
(40) Franklin Louisiana Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class A
(41) Franklin Louisiana Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class C
(42) Franklin Maryland Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class A
(43) Franklin Maryland Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class C
(44) Franklin Missouri Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class A
(45) Franklin Missouri Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class C
(46) Franklin North Carolina Tax-Free Income Attached
Fund - Class A
(47) Franklin North Carolina Tax-Free Income Attached
Fund - Class C
(48) Franklin Texas Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class A
(49) Franklin Texas Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class C
(50) Franklin Virginia Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class A
(51) Franklin Virginia Tax-Free Income Fund - Attached
Class C
*Incorporated by Reference
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
We consent to the incorporation by reference in Post-Effective Amendment No.
27 to the Registration Statement of Franklin Tax-Free Trust on Form N-1A
(File No. 2-94222) of our report dated April 2, 1999 on our audit of the
financial statements and financial highlights of Franklin Tax-Free Trust,
which report is included in the Annual Report to Shareholders for the year
ended February 28, 1999 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
pursuant to section 30(d) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, which is
incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement. We also consent to
the reference to our firm under the captions "Financial Highlights" and
"Auditor."
/s/PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
San Francisco, California
April 28, 1999
MULTIPLE CLASS PLAN
ON BEHALF OF
FRANKLIN HIGH YIELD TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
This Multiple Class Plan (the "Plan") has been adopted by a majority of
the Board of Trustees of FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST (the "Investment Company")
for its series, FRANKLIN HIGH YIELD TAX-FREE INCOME FUND (the "Fund"). The
Board has determined that the Plan, including the expense allocation, is in
the best interests of each class of the Fund and the Investment Company as a
whole. The Plan sets forth the provisions relating to the establishment of
multiple classes of shares of the Fund, and supersedes any Plan previously
adopted for the Fund.
1. The Fund shall offer three classes of shares, to be known as Class
A Shares, Class B Shares and Class C Shares.
2. Class A Shares shall carry a front-end sales charge ranging from 0%
- - 4.25%, and Class C Shares shall carry a front-end sales charge of 1.00%.
Class B Shares shall not be subject to any front-end sales charges.
3. Class A Shares shall not be subject to a contingent deferred sales
charge ("CDSC"), except in the following limited circumstances. On
investments of $1 million or more, a contingent deferred sales charge of
1.00% of the lesser of the then-current net asset value or the original net
asset value at the time of purchase applies to redemptions of those
investments within the contingency period of 12 months from the calendar
month following their purchase. The CDSC is waived in certain circumstances,
as described in the Fund's prospectus.
Class B Shares shall be subject to a CDSC with the following CDSC
schedule: (a) Class B Shares redeemed within 2 years of their purchase shall
be assessed a CDSC of 4% on the lesser of the then-current net asset value or
the original net asset value at the time of purchase; (b) Class B Shares
redeemed within the third and fourth years of their purchase shall be
assessed a CDSC of 3% on the lesser of the then-current net asset value or
the original net asset value at the time of purchase; (c) Class B Shares
redeemed within 5 years of their purchase shall be assessed a CDSC of 2% on
the lesser of the then-current net asset value or the original net asset
value at the time of purchase; and (d) Class B Shares redeemed within 6 years
of their purchase shall be assessed a CDSC of 1% on the lesser of the
then-current net asset value or the original net asset value at the time of
purchase. The CDSC is waived in certain circumstances described in the
Fund's prospectus.
Class C Shares redeemed within 18 months of their purchase shall be
assessed a CDSC of 1.00% on the lesser of the then-current net asset value or
the original net asset value at the time of purchase. The CDSC is waived in
certain circumstances as described in the Fund's prospectus.
4. The distribution plan adopted by the Investment Company pursuant to
Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, (the "Rule
12b-1 Plan") associated with the Class A Shares may be used to reimburse
Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc. (the "Distributor") or others for
expenses incurred in the promotion and distribution of the Class A Shares.
Such expenses include, but are not limited to, the printing of prospectuses
and reports used for sales purposes, expenses of preparing and distributing
sales literature and related expenses, advertisements, and other
distribution-related expenses, including a prorated portion of the
Distributor's overhead expenses attributable to the distribution of the Class
A Shares, as well as any distribution or service fees paid to securities
dealers or their firms or others who have executed a servicing agreement with
the Investment Company for the Class A Shares, the Distributor or its
affiliates.
The Rule 12b-1 Plan associated with the Class B Shares has two
components. The first component is an asset-based sales charge to be
retained by Distributor to compensate Distributor for amounts advanced to
securities dealers or their firms or others with respect to the sale of Class
B Shares. In addition, such payments may be retained by the Distributor to
be used in the promotion and distribution of Class B Shares in a manner
similar to that described above for Class A Shares. The second component is
a shareholder servicing fee to be paid to securities dealers or others who
provide personal assistance to shareholders in servicing their accounts.
The Rule 12b-1 Plan associated with the Class C Shares has two
components. The first component is a shareholder servicing fee, to be paid
to broker-dealers, banks, trust companies and others who maintain shareholder
accounts or provide personal assistance to shareholders in servicing their
accounts. The second component is an asset-based sales charge to be retained
by the Distributor during the first year after the sale of shares and, in
subsequent years, to be paid to dealers or retained by the Distributor to be
used in the promotion and distribution of Class C Shares, in a manner similar
to that described above for Class A Shares.
The Rule 12b-1 Plans for the Class A, Class B and Class C Shares shall
operate in accordance with Rule 2830(d) of the Conduct Rules of the National
Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
5. The only difference in expenses as between Class A, Class B and
Class C Shares shall relate to differences in Rule 12b-1 plan expenses, as
described in the applicable Rule 12b-1 Plans; however, to the extent that the
Rule 12b-1 Plan expenses of one Class are the same as the Rule 12b-1 Plan
expenses of another Class, such classes shall be subject to the same expenses.
6. There shall be no conversion features associated with the Class A
and Class C Shares. Each Class B Share, however, shall be converted
automatically, and without any action or choice on the part of the holder of
the Class B Shares, into Class A Shares on the conversion date specified, and
in accordance with the terms and conditions approved by the Franklin Tax-Free
Trust's Board of Trustees and as described, in each fund's prospectus
relating to the Class B Shares, as such prospectus may be amended from time
to time; provided, however, that the Class B Shares shall be converted
automatically into Class A Shares to the extent and on the terms permitted by
the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the rules and regulations adopted
thereunder.
7. Shares of Class A, Class B and Class C may be exchanged for shares
of another investment company within the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds
according to the terms and conditions stated in each fund's prospectus, as it
may be amended from time to time, to the extent permitted by the Investment
Company Act of 1940 and the rules and regulations adopted thereunder.
8. Each class will vote separately with respect to any Rule 12b-1 Plan
related to, or which now or in the future may affect, that class.
9. On an ongoing basis, the Board members, pursuant to their fiduciary
responsibilities under the Investment Company Act of 1940 and otherwise, will
monitor the Fund for the existence of any material conflicts between the
Board members interests of the various classes of shares. The Board members,
including a majority of the independent Board members, shall take such action
as is reasonably necessary to eliminate any such conflict that may develop.
Franklin Advisers, Inc. and Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc. shall be
responsible for alerting the Board to any material conflicts that arise.
10. All material amendments to this Plan must be approved by a majority
of the Board members, including a majority of the Board members who are not
interested persons of the Investment Company.
11. I, Deborah R. Gatzek, Secretary of the Franklin Group of Funds, do
hereby certify that this Multiple Class Plan was adopted by FRANKLIN TAX-FREE
TRUST, on behalf of its series FRANKLIN HIGH YIELD TAX-FREE INCOME FUND, by a
majority of the Trustees of the Trust on March 19, 1998.
/s/Deborah R. Gatzek
Deborah R. Gatzek
Secretary
POWER OF ATTORNEY
The undersigned officers and trustees of FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST (the
"Registrant") hereby appoint MARK H. PLAFKER, HARMON E. BURNS, DEBORAH R.
GATZEK, KAREN L. SKIDMORE AND LEIANN NUZUM (with full power to each of them
to act alone) his attorney-in-fact and agent, in all capacities, to execute,
file or withdraw any of the documents referred to below relating to
Post-Effective Amendments to the Registrant's registration statement on Form
N-1A under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and under the
Securities Act of 1933 covering the sale of shares by the Registrant under
prospectuses becoming effective after this date, including any amendment or
amendments increasing or decreasing the amount of securities for which
registration is being sought, with all exhibits and any and all documents
required to be filed with respect thereto with any regulatory authority.
Each of the undersigned grants to each of said attorneys, full authority to
do every act necessary to be done in order to effectuate the same as fully,
to all intents and purposes as he could do if personally present, thereby
ratifying all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, may lawfully do or
cause to be done by virtue hereof.
The undersigned officers and trustees hereby execute this Power of
Attorney as of this 16th day of March, 1999.
/S/RUPERT H. JOHNSON, JR. /S/FRANK H. ABBOTT, III
Rupert H. Johnson, Jr., Principal Frank H. Abbott, III,
Executive Officer Trustee
and Trustee
/S/HARRIS J. ASHTON /S/S. JOSEPH FORTUNATO
Harris J. Ashton, S. Joseph Fortunato,
Trustee Trustee
/S/EDITH E. HOLIDAY /S/CHARLES B. JOHNSON
Edith E. Holiday, Charles B. Johnson,
Trustee Trustee
/S/FRANK W.T. LAHAYE /S/GORDON S. MACKLIN
Frank W.T. LaHaye, Gordon S. Macklin
Trustee Trustee
/S/DIOMEDES LOO-TAM /S/MARTIN L. FLANAGAN
Diomedes Loo-Tam, Martin L. Flanagan,
Principal Accounting Officer Principal Financial Officer
CERTIFICATE OF SECRETARY
I, Deborah R. Gatzek, certify that I am Secretary of FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST
(the "Trust").
As Secretary of the Trust, I further certify that the following resolution
was adopted by a majority of the Trustees of the Trust present at a meeting
held at 777 Mariners Island Boulevard, San Mateo, California 94404, on March
16, 1999.
RESOLVED, that a Power of Attorney, substantially in the form of
the Power of Attorney presented to this Board, appointing Harmon E.
Burns, Deborah R. Gatzek, Mark H. Plafker, Karen L. Skidmore, and
Leiann Nuzum as attorneys-in-fact for the purpose of filing
documents with the Securities and Exchange Commission, be executed
by each Trustee and designated officer.
I declare under penalty of perjury that the matters set forth in this
certificate are true and correct of my own knowledge.
/s/Deborah R. Gatzek
Dated: March 16, 1999 Deborah R. Gatzek
Secretary
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 201
<NAME> FRANKLIN ARIZONA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 831,274,466
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 881,085,864
<RECEIVABLES> 13,501,886
<ASSETS-OTHER> 17,047
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 894,604,797
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 6,936,018
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 2,777,893
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 9,713,911
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 833,057,143
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 75,676,165
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 70,818,846
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (714,249)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 2,736,594
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 49,811,398
<NET-ASSETS> 884,890,886
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 49,269,531
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (5,526,011)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 43,743,520
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 3,918,445
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (4,679,698)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 42,982,267
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (43,002,925)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (3,662,232)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 11,526,533
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (8,347,885)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 1,678,671
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 60,104,009
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 2,559,586
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (599,453)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (4,124,084)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (5,526,011)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 857,688,444
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.440
<PER-SHARE-NII> .590
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (.010)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.590)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.050)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.380
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .630
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME
IN THE AMOUNT OF $.002
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 202
<NAME> FRANKLIN ARIZONA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 831,274,466
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 881,085,864
<RECEIVABLES> 13,501,886
<ASSETS-OTHER> 17,047
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 894,604,797
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 6,936,018
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 2,777,893
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 9,713,911
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 833,057,143
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 2,084,645
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 1,263,353
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (714,249)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 2,736,594
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 49,811,398
<NET-ASSETS> 884,890,886
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 49,269,531
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (5,526,011)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 43,743,520
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 3,918,445
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (4,679,698)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 42,982,267
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (855,391)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (79,205)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1,020,350
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (247,506)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 48,448
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 60,104,009
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 2,559,586
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (599,453)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (4,124,084)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (5,526,011)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 857,688,444
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.510
<PER-SHARE-NII> .520
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (.010)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.520)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.050)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.450
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.190
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME
IN THE AMOUNT OF $.001
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRELY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 091
<NAME> FRANKLIN COLORADO TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 300,358,251
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 318,632,160
<RECEIVABLES> 5,401,043
<ASSETS-OTHER> 525,388
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 324,558,591
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,278,526
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 1,278,526
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 304,695,769
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 25,010,763
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 22,006,468
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (6,782)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 317,169
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 18,273,909
<NET-ASSETS> 323,280,065
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 16,984,007
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (2,208,131)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 14,775,876
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 1,022,077
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (713,406)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 15,084,547
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (14,194,660)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (1,791,554)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> (0)
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 4,827,831
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (2,479,532)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 655,996
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 45,825,771
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 121,387
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 1,188,722
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (0)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,615,981)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (2,208,131)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 301,231,995
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.110
<PER-SHARE-NII> .600
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .020
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.600)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.080)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.050
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .700
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRELY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 092
<NAME> FRANKLIN COLORADO TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 300,358,251
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 318,632,160
<RECEIVABLES> 5,401,043
<ASSETS-OTHER> 525,388
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 324,558,591
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,278,526
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 1,278,526
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 304,695,769
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 1,808,249
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 892,230
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (6,782)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 317,169
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 18,273,909
<NET-ASSETS> 323,280,065
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 16,984,007
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (2,208,131)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 14,775,876
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 1,022,077
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (713,406)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 15,084,547
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (709,385)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (102,076)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> (0)
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1,064,599
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (195,768)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 47,188
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 45,825,771
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 121,387
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 1,188,722
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (0)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,615,981)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (2,208,131)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 301,231,995
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.17
<PER-SHARE-NII> .540
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .020
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.540)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.080)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.110
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.260
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 221
<NAME> FRANKLIN CONNECTICUT TAX FREE INCOME CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 250,313,211
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 265,533,638
<RECEIVABLES> 4,524,697
<ASSETS-OTHER> 414,145
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 270,472,480
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 983,212
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,030,223
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 2,013,435
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 256,946,875
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 21,741,974
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 18,135,881
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (150,586)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (3,557,671)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 15,220,427
<NET-ASSETS> 268,459,045
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 13,658,702
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,783,887)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 11,874,815
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 631,807
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 175,555
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 12,682,177
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (11,258,125)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 5,343,819
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (2,231,916)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 494,190
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 56,179,911
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (93,984)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (4,189,478)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,313,337)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,783,887)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 235,315,407
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.230
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.580
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.040
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.580)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.270
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 0.720
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
<FN>
<F1>Includes distributions in excess of net investment
income in the amount of $0.002.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 222
<NAME> FRANKLIN CONNECTICUT TAX FREE INCOME CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 250,313,211
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 265,533,638
<RECEIVABLES> 4,524,697
<ASSETS-OTHER> 414,145
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 270,472,480
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 983,212
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,030,223
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 2,013,435
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 256,946,875
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 2,074,157
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 767,289
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (150,586)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (3,557,671)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 15,220,427
<NET-ASSETS> 268,459,045
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 13,658,702
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,783,887)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 11,874,815
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 631,807
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 175,555
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 12,682,177
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (673,292)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1,442,047
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (172,113)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 36,934
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 56,179,911
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (93,984)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (4,189,478)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,313,377)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,783,887)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 235,315,407
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.260
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.520
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.030
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.510)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.300
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.280
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
<FN>
<F1>Includes distributions in excess of net investment
income in the amount of $0.002.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 071
<NAME> FRANKLIN HIGH YIELD TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 6,220,378,766
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 6,550,576,108
<RECEIVABLES> 123,842,954
<ASSETS-OTHER> 1,522,911
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 6,675,941,973
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 11,382,566
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 28,893,734
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 40,276,300
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 6,307,393,570
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 521,176,095
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 491,518,335
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (3,528,808)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 1,603,569
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 330,197,342
<NET-ASSETS> 6,635,665,673
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 403,886,153
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (43,287,367)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 360,598,786
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 21,319,398
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (120,400,244)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 261,517,940
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (332,249,669)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (7,966,666)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 109,439,514
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (92,381,330)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 12,599,576
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 469,462,852
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (4,517,342)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (10,929,422)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (29,382,074)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (43,287,367)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 6,453,286,237
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.680
<PER-SHARE-NII> .660
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (.180)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.650)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.020)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.490
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .620
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 072
<NAME> FRANKLIN HIGH YIELD TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS B
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR <F1>
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 6,220,378,766
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 6,550,576,108
<RECEIVABLES> 123,842,954
<ASSETS-OTHER> 1,522,911
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 6,675,941,973
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 11,382,566
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 28,893,734
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 40,276,300
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 6,307,393,570
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 1,344,656
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (3,528,808)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 1,603,569
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 330,197,342
<NET-ASSETS> 6,635,665,673
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 403,886,153
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (43,287,367)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 360,598,786
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 21,319,398
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (120,400,244)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 261,517,940
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (46,213)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1,351,940
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (9,204)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 1,920
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 469,462,852
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (4,517,342)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (10,929,422)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (29,382,074)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (43,287,367)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 6,453,286,237
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.510
<PER-SHARE-NII> .110
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .000
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.100)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> .000
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.520
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.180<F2>
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>FOR THE PERIOD JANUARY 1, 1999 (EFFECTIVE DATE) TO FEBRUARY 28, 1999.
<F2>ANNUALIZED
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 073
<NAME> FRANKLIN HIGH YIELD TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 6,220,378,766
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 6,550,576,108
<RECEIVABLES> 123,842,954
<ASSETS-OTHER> 1,522,911
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 6,675,941,973
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 11,382,566
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 28,893,734
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 40,276,300
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 6,307,393,570
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 54,646,563
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 36,010,695
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (3,528,808)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 1,603,569
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 330,197,342
<NET-ASSETS> 6,635,665,673
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 403,886,153
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (43,287,367)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 360,598,786
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 21,319,398
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (120,400,244)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 261,517,940
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (27,314,370)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (819,741)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 23,491,348
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (6,290,089)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 1,434,609
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 469,462,852
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (4,517,342)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (10,929,422)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (29,382,074)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (43,287,367)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 6,453,286,237
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.750
<PER-SHARE-NII> .600
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (.180)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.590)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.020)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.560
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.180
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 171
<NAME> FRANKLIN INDIANA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 55,630,869
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 59,316,143
<RECEIVABLES> 678,331
<ASSETS-OTHER> 195,746
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 60,190,220
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 970,162
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 206,235
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 1,176,397
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 55,225,179
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 4,905,278
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 4,526,785
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 67,119
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 36,251
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 3,685,274
<NET-ASSETS> 59,013,823
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 3,383,332
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (467,270)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 2,916,062
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 133,302
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (141,351)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 2,908,013
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (2,944,395)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (157,423)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 693,824
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (462,563)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 147,232
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 4,370,594
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 95,452
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 60,372
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (357,518)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (467,270)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 56,923,362
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.070
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.620
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.630)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (0.030)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.030
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .820
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 28
<NAME> FRANKLIN MICHIGAN TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 16,234,216
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 16,852,918
<RECEIVABLES> 235,083
<ASSETS-OTHER> 80,178
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 17,168,179
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 50,761
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 50,761
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 16,499,809
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 1,543,179
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 841,149
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 32,280
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (33,373)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 618,702
<NET-ASSETS> 17,117,418
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 680,121
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (32,210)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 647,911
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> (33,373)
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 124,833
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 739,371
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (659,124)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (21,402)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 873,005
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (205,659)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 34,684
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 7,849,826
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 43,531
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 21,364
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (82,747)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (121,238)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 12,889,293
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.020
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.540
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.120
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.570)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (0.020)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.090
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 0.250<F1>
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
<FN>
<F1>EXPENSE RATIO EXCLUDING WAIVER 0.94%
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 211
<NAME> FRANKLIN NEW JERSEY TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 680,354,419
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 726,783,993
<RECEIVABLES> 10,491,236
<ASSETS-OTHER> 1,266,686
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 738,541,915
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 4,939,156
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 3,069,570
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 8,008,726
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 683,827,782
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 56,986,626
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 53,422,807
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 74,948
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 200,885
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 46,429,574
<NET-ASSETS> 730,533,189
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 39,922,588
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (4,798,167)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 35,124,421
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 596,765
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 2,362,264
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 38,083,450
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (33,973,510)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 9,025,737
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (6,947,075)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 1,485,157
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 65,465,441
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 652,607
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (395,880)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (3,411,855)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (4,798,167)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 699,027,830
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.920
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.610
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.050
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.620)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0.000
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.960
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 0.650
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 212
<NAME> FRANKLIN NEW JERSEY TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 680,354,419
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 726,783,993
<RECEIVABLES> 10,491,236
<ASSETS-OTHER> 1,266,686
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 738,541,915
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 4,939,156
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 3,069,570
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 8,008,726
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 683,627,782
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 4,050,857
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 2,349,198
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 74,948
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 200,885
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 46,429,574
<NET-ASSETS> 730,533,189
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 39,922,588
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (4,798,167)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 35,124,421
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 596,765
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 2,362,264
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 38,083,450
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (1,728,570)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 2,039,721
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (430,504)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 92,442
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 65,465,441
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 652,607
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (395,880)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (3,411,855)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (4,798,167)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 699,027,830
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.980
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.540
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.060
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.550)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0.000
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.030
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.210
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 121
<NAME> FRANKLIN OREGON TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 511,636,176
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 539,021,851
<RECEIVABLES> 14,604,447
<ASSETS-OTHER> 177,028
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 553,803,326
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 34,900,794
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 2,275,852
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 37,176,646
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 488,652,372
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 40,885,474
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 36,020,329
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 692,530
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (103,897)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 27,385,675
<NET-ASSETS> 516,626,680
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 27,260,470
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (3,359,120)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 23,901,350
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 1,677,443
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (1,943,787)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 23,635,006
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (23,518,284)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 7,610,561
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (3,846,398)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 1,100,982
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 73,658,035
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 1,451,796
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (1,781,340)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (2,429,095)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (3,359,120)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 480,797,696
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.860
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.590
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (0.010)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.610)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0.000
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.830
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 0.670
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
<FN>
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 122
<NAME> FRANKLIN OREGON TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 511,636,176
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 539,021,851
<RECEIVABLES> 14,604,447
<ASSETS-OTHER> 177,028
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 553,803,326
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 34,900,794
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 2,275,852
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 37,176,646
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 488,652,372
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 2,768,838
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 1,337,390
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 692,530
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (103,897)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 27,385,675
<NET-ASSETS> 516,626,680
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 27,260,470
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (3,359,120)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 23,901,350
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 1,677,443
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (1,943,787)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 23,635,006
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (1,142,332)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1,560,923
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (199,919)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 70,444
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 73,658,035
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 1,451,796
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (1,781,340)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (2,429,095)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (3,359,120)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 480,797,696
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.920
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.530
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.550)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0.000
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.900
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.230
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
<FN>
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 081
<NAME> FRANKLIN PENNSYLVANIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 750,024,735
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 796,906,978
<RECEIVABLES> 14,121,239
<ASSETS-OTHER> 45,510
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 811,073,727
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 7,025,754
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 3,188,425
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 10,214,179
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 754,792,227
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 72,117,372
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 67,536,025
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (831,892)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 16,970
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 46,882,243
<NET-ASSETS> 800,859,548
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 44,955,652
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (5,246,665)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 39,708,987
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 1,071,826
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (2,242,080)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 38,538,733
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (38,601,454)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (985,591)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 10,273,081
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (7,413,012)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 1,721,278
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 61,819,044
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (396,549)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (18,067)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (3,734,742)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (5,246,665)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 771,105,873
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 10.560
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.550
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (0.020)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.560)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (0.010)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 10.520
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 0.650
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME
IN THE AMOUNT OF $0.010.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 082
<NAME> FRANKLIN PENNSYLVANIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 750,024,735
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 796,906,978
<RECEIVABLES> 14,121,239
<ASSETS-OTHER> 45,510
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 811,073,727
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 7,025,754
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 3,188,425
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 10,214,179
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 754,792,227
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 3,963,903
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 2,442,080
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (831,892)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 16,970
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 46,882,243
<NET-ASSETS> 800,859,548
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 44,955,652
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (5,246,665)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 39,708,987
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 1,071,826
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (2,242,080)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 38,538,733
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (1,542,876)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (51,198)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1,872,749
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (447,006)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 96,080
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 61,819,044
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (396,549)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (18,067)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (3,734,742)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (5,246,665)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 771,105,873
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 10.610
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.490
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (0.030)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.490)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (0.010)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 10.570
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.210
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME IN THE
AMOUNT OF $0.004.
</FN>
</TABLE>
WARNING: THE EDGAR SYSTEM ENCOUNTERED ERROR(S) WHILE PROCESSING THIS SCHEDULE.
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 061
<NAME> FRANKLIN PUERTO RICO TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 207,722,364
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 222,936,208
<RECEIVABLES> 3,596,883
<ASSETS-OTHER> 62,283
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 226,595,374
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 792,164
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 792,164
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 210,452,214
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 18,414,910
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 17,732,666
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (162,258)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 299,410
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 15,213,844
<NET-ASSETS> 225,803,210
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 12,559,957
OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,659,464)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 10,900,493
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 836,253
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 296,087
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 12,032,833
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (10,776,893)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (682,528)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 2,024,140
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (1,811,759)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 469,863
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 11,863,474
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 165,192
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (47,259)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,223,542)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,659,464)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 219,081,835
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.860
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.600
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.060
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.600)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (0.040)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.880
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 0.740
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME IN THE AMOUNT OF
$0.006
</FN>
</TABLE>
WARNING: THE EDGAR SYSTEM ENCOUNTERED ERROR(S) WHILE PROCESSING THIS SCHEDULE.
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 062
<NAME> FRANKLIN PUERTO RICO TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 207,722,364
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 222,936,208
<RECEIVABLES> 3,596,883
<ASSETS-OTHER> 62,283
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 226,595,374
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 792,164
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 792,164
SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 210,452,214
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 592,723
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 304,525
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (162,258)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 299,410
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 15,213,844
<NET-ASSETS> 225,803,210
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 12,559,957
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,659,464)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 10,900,493
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 836,253
APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 296,087
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 12,032,833
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (238,599)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (19,507)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 361,675
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (86,636)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 13,159
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 11,863,474
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 165,192
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (47,259)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,223,542)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,659,464)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 219,081,835
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.870
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.530
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.060
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.530)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (0.040)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.890
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.300
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME IN THE AMOUNT OF
$0.004
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN
ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 25
<NAME> FRANKLIN FED. INTERMED. TERM TF INCOME FUND
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 187,361,831
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 194,533,055
<RECEIVABLES> 3,327,071
<ASSETS-OTHER> 144,009
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 198,004,135
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 1,067,691
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,338,076
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 2,405,767
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 189,475,717
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 17,309,260
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 12,400,498
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 66,835
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (1,115,408)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 7,171,224
<NET-ASSETS> 195,598,368
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 8,674,233
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,232,174)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 7,442,059
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 146,469
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 632,241
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 8,220,769
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (7,539,385)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 11,604,328
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (7,120,171)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 424,605
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 56,053,423
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 164,161
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (1,261,877)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (959,067)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,289,640)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 164,440,763
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.250
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.510
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.060
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.520)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0.000
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.300
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 0.750
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 26
<NAME> FRANKLIN ARIZONA INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 76,557,736
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 80,031,977
<RECEIVABLES> 1,062,248
<ASSETS-OTHER> 12,357
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 81,106,582
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 422,157
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 422,157
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 77,325,323
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 7,442,975
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 5,392,194
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 67,696
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (182,835)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 3,474,241
<NET-ASSETS> 80,684,425
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 3,526,936
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (252,311)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 3,274,625
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 64,058
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 334,186
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 3,672,869
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (3,262,224)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 2,370,125
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (466,289)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 146,945
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 22,625,692
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 55,295
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (246,983)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (444,848)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (567,534)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 67,283,159
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 10.770
<PER-SHARE-NII> .530
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .070
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.530)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> .000
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 10.840
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .370<F1>
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>EXPENSE RATIO EXCLUDING WAIVER .84%
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 271
<NAME> FRANKLIN FLORIDA INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 115,940,869
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 122,730,335
<RECEIVABLES> 2,262,680
<ASSETS-OTHER> 11,359
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 125,004,374
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 516,552
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 516,552
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 118,925,479
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 11,825,883
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 9,733,038
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 40,425
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (1,267,548)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 6,789,466
<NET-ASSETS> 124,487,822
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 5,997,743
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (477,642)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 5,520,101
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 2,867
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 979,147
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 6,502,115
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (5,528,406)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 3,700,444
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (1,790,202)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 182,603
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 22,982,240
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 48,730
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (1,270,415)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (697,080)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (895,179)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 113,210,293
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 10.430
<PER-SHARE-NII> .510
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .100
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.510)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> .000
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 10.530
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .420<F1>
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>EXPENSE RATIO EXCLUDING WAIVER .790
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 011
<NAME> FRANKLIN INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 1,671,809,661
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 1,782,702,781
<RECEIVABLES> 25,565,648
<ASSETS-OTHER> 3,916,593
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 1,812,185,022
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 11,879,828
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 8,125,120
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 20,004,948
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 1,679,955,238
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 140,839,755
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 136,849,855
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (1,730,568)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 3,062,284
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 110,893,120
<NET-ASSETS> 1,792,180,074
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 100,799,419
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (11,177,608)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 89,621,811
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 10,620,546
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (3,082,372)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 97,159,985
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (88,191,040)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (13,902,736)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 20,347,674
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (20,145,689)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 3,787,915
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 68,862,891
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 6,770,015
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (851,836)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (8,186,468)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (11,177,608)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 1,760,124,588
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.310
<PER-SHARE-NII> .630
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .060
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.640)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.100)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.260
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .620
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME IN THE
AMOUNT OF $.010
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 012
<NAME> FRANKLIN INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 1,671,809,661
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 1,782,702,781
<RECEIVABLES> 25,565,648
<ASSETS-OTHER> 3,916,593
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 1,812,185,022
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 11,879,828
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 8,125,120
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 20,004,948
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 1,679,955,238
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 5,284,153
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 3,074,478
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (1,730,568)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 3,062,284
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 110,893,120
<NET-ASSETS> 1,792,180,074
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 100,799,419
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (11,177,608)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 89,621,811
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 10,620,546
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (3,082,372)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 97,159,985
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (2,309,503)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (425,541)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 2,858,182
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (791,952)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 143,445
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 68,862,891
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 6,770,015
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (851,836)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (8,186,468)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (11,177,608)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 1,760,124,588
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.380
<PER-SHARE-NII> .570
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .050
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.570)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.100)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.330
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.180
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME IN THE
AMOUNT OF $.004
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST February 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 021
<NAME> FRANKLIN MASSACHUSETTS INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND-CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 340,631,592
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 362,469,032
<RECEIVABLES> 5,300,613
<ASSETS-OTHER> 243,854
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 368,013,499
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,633,016
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 1,633,016
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 344,727,415
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 29,050,502
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 27,917,603
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (184,372)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 21,837,440
<NET-ASSETS> 366,380,483
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 20,020,960
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (2,517,235)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 17,503,725
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 549,086
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (1,068)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 18,051,743
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (16,632,794)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (1,931,958)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 3,673,445
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (3,280,706)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 740,160
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 24,297,219
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 1,463,945
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (210,542)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,842,232)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (2,517,235)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 352,693,259
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.750
<PER-SHARE-NII> .590
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .030
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.590)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.070)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.710
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 0.680
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST February 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 022
<NAME> FRANKLIN MASSACHUSETTS INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND-CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 340,631,592
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 362,469,032
<RECEIVABLES> 5,300,613
<ASSETS-OTHER> 243,854
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 368,013,499
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,633,016
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 1,633,016
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 344,727,415
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 2,233,198
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 1,180,684
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (184,372)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 21,837,440
<NET-ASSETS> 366,380,483
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 20,020,960
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (2,517,235)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 17,503,725
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 549,086
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (1,068)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 18,051,743
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (844,761)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (108,794)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1,236,934
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (243,865)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 59,445
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 24,297,219
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 1,463,945
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (210,542)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,842,232)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (2,517,235)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 352,693,259
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.800
<PER-SHARE-NII> .520
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .030
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.520)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.070)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.760
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.240
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 031
<NAME> FRANKLIN MICHIGAN INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 1,106,348,081
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 1,195,996,630
<RECEIVABLES> 20,109,532
<ASSETS-OTHER> 478,098
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 1,216,584,260
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 5,268,910
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 5,268,910
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 1,122,808,393
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 94,578,729
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 93,666,608
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (1,057,561)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (84,031)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 89,648,549
<NET-ASSETS> 1,211,315,350
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 66,806,324
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (7,744,126)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 59,062,198
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 2,222,023
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 10,636,500
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 71,920,721
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (56,963,881)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (5,139,566)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 8,062,766
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (9,743,467)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 2,592,822
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 35,877,879
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 3,019,077
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (1,346,656)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (5,623,372)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (7,744,126)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 1,191,399,234
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.200
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.610
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.130
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.610)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (0.050)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.280
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 0.630
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 032
<NAME> FRANKLIN MICHIGAN INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 1,106,348,081
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 1,195,996,630
<RECEIVABLES> 20,109,532
<ASSETS-OTHER> 478,098
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 1,216,584,260
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 5,268,910
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 5,268,910
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 1,122,808,393
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 4,043,774
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 2,679,153
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (1,057,561)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (84,031)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 89,648,549
<NET-ASSETS> 1,211,315,350
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 66,806,324
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (7,744,126)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 59,062,198
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 2,222,023
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 10,636,500
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 71,920,721
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (1,809,222)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (185,565)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1,687,220
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (437,096)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 114,497
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 35,877,879
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 3,019,077
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (1,346,656)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (5,623,372)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (7,744,126)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 1,191,399,234
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.270
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.550
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.130
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.540)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (0.050)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.360
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.190
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28,1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 041
<NAME> FRANKLIN MINNESOTA INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 505,431,161
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 530,747,218
<RECEIVABLES> 6,631,959
<ASSETS-OTHER> 869,149
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 538,248,326
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 2,178,376
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 2,178,376
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 509,742,695
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 42,439,549
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 40,727,502
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (47,855)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 1,059,053
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 25,316,057
<NET-ASSETS> 536,069,950
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 29,428,362
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (3,535,225)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 25,893,137
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 1,829,574
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (1,790,539)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 25,932,172
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (25,415,429)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (856,454)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 4,579,843
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (4,006,455)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 1,138,659
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 30,624,208
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 157,545
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 115,678
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (2,591,321)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (3,535,225)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 518,516,449
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.160
<PER-SHARE-NII> .610
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .010
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.620)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.020)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.140
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .670
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT
INCOME IN THE AMOUNT OF $.001
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28,1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 042
<NAME> FRANKLIN MINNESOTA INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 505,431,161
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 530,747,218
<RECEIVABLES> 6,631,959
<ASSETS-OTHER> 869,149
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 538,248,326
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 2,178,376
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 2,178,376
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 509,742,695
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 1,713,805
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 829,737
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (47,855)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 1,059,053
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 25,316,057
<NET-ASSETS> 536,069,950
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 29,428,362
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (3,535,225)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 25,893,137
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 1,829,574
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (1,790,539)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 25,932,172
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (683,108)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (29,745)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 967,191
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (121,981)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 38,858
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 30,624,208
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 157,545
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 115,678
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (2,591,321)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (3,535,225)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 518,516,449
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.210
<PER-SHARE-NII> .540
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .010
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.550)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.020)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.190
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.230
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT
INCOME IN THE AMOUNT OF $.001
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 051
<NAME> FRANKLIN OHIO INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND-CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 763,384,531
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 815,625,146
<RECEIVABLES> 12,898,239
<ASSETS-OTHER> 439,000
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 828,962,385
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 6,492,427
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 3,619,387
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 10,111,814
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 765,490,110
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 62,170,225
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 59,513,390
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (27,565)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 1,147,411
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 52,240,615
<NET-ASSETS> 818,850,571
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 44,538,395
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (5,350,340)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 39,188,055
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 2,482,460
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 1,410,754
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 43,081,269
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (37,252,026)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (1,823,769)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 7,474,825
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (6,380,336)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 1,562,346
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 49,592,912
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 578,408
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (434,981)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (3,822,228)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (5,350,340)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 791,219,794
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.450
<PER-SHARE-NII> .620
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .070
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.620)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.030)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.490
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .650
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 052
<NAME> FRANKLIN OHIO INSURED TAX-FREE INCOME FUND-CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 763,384,531
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 815,625,146
<RECEIVABLES> 12,898,239
<ASSETS-OTHER> 439,000
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 828,962,385
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 6,492,427
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 3,619,387
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 10,111,814
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 765,490,110
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 3,365,166
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 2,251,795
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (27,565)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 1,147,411
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 52,240,615
<NET-ASSETS> 818,850,571
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 44,538,395
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (5,350,340)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 39,188,055
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 2,482,460
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 1,410,754
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 43,081,269
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (1,528,613)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (89,688)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1,355,256
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (334,322)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 92,437
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 49,592,912
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 578,408
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (434,981)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (3,822,228)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (5,350,340)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 791,219,794
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.510
<PER-SHARE-NII> .550
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .080
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.550)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.030)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.560
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.210
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 151
<NAME> FRANKLIN ALABAMA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 239,591,493
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 249,338,365
<RECEIVABLES> 4,779,191
<ASSETS-OTHER> 453,849
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 254,571,405
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,005,934
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 1,005,934
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 243,779,474
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 20,428,832
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 18,110,125
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (118,337)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 157,462
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 9,746,872
<NET-ASSETS> 253,565,471
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 14,252,165
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,781,468)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 12,470,697
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 818,129
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (5,618,719)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 7,670,107
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (12,052,134)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (917,072)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 3,928,750
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (2,107,060)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 497,017
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 27,113,946
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 28,029
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 307,701
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,332,672)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,781,468)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 239,887,654
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.98
<PER-SHARE-NII> .620
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (.250)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.620)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.050)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.680
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .710
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME
IN THE AMOUNT OF $0.006.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 152
<NAME> FRANKLIN ALABAMA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 239,591,493
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 249,338,365
<RECEIVABLES> 4,779,191
<ASSETS-OTHER> 453,849
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 254,571,405
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,005,934
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 1,005,934
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 243,779,474
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 1,268,242
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 786,748
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (118,337)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 157,462
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 9,746,872
<NET-ASSETS> 253,565,471
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 14,252,165
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,781,468)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 12,470,697
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 818,129
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (5,618,719)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 7,670,107
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (564,929)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (51,296)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 572,980
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (119,184)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 27,698
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 27,113,946
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 28,029
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 307,701
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,332,672)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,781,468)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 239,887,654
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.040
<PER-SHARE-NII> .560
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (.250)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.560)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.050)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.740
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.270
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME
IN THE AMOUNT OF $0.004.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 161
<NAME> FRANKLIN FLORIDA TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 1,733,617,423
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 1,859,310,832
<RECEIVABLES> 33,655,345
<ASSETS-OTHER> 2,937,764
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 1,895,903,941
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 19,026,081
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 8,562,209
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 27,588,290
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 1,743,938,503
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 149,957,856
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 139,068,974
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (1,446,933)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 130,672
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 125,693,409
<NET-ASSETS> 1,868,315,651
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 102,651,131
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (11,221,543)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 91,429,588
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 2,085,930
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 5,208,364
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 98,723,882
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (88,374,376)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (1,175,768)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 27,102,249
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (18,386,112)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 2,172,745
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 162,220,173
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (1,372,701)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (727,155)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (8,253,117)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (11,221,543)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 1,769,626,132
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.870
<PER-SHARE-NII> .620
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .050
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.620)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.010)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.910
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .610
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME IN THE
AMOUNT OF $.0005.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 162
<NAME> FRANKLIN FLORIDA TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 1,733,617,423
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 1,859,310,832
<RECEIVABLES> 33,655,345
<ASSETS-OTHER> 2,937,764
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 1,895,903,941
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 19,026,081
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 8,562,209
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 27,588,290
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 1,743,938,503
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 6,879,584
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 4,685,874
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (1,446,933)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 130,672
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 125,693,409
<NET-ASSETS> 1,868,315,651
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 102,651,131
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (11,221,543)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 91,429,588
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 2,085,930
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 5,208,364
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 98,723,882
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (3,129,444)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (52,335)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 3,192,922
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (1,141,979)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 142,767
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 162,220,173
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (1,372,701)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (727,155)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (8,253,117)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (11,221,543)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 1,769,626,132
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.960
<PER-SHARE-NII> .550
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .060
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.550)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.010)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.010
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.170
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME IN THE
AMOUNT OF $.0004.
</FN>
</TABLE>
WARNING: THE EDGAR SYSTEM ENCOUNTERED ERROR(S) WHILE PROCESSING THIS SCHEDULE.
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINACIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 101
<NAME> FRANKLIN GEORGIA TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 169,585,233
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 178,962,707
<RECEIVABLES> 2,856,258
<ASSETS-OTHER> 909,151
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 182,728,116
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 781,650
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 781,650
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 172,612,669
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 13,640,887
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 12,343,294
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (69,534)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 25,857
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 9,377,474
<NET-ASSETS> 181,946,466
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 9,886,345
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,367,403)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 8,518,942
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 628,282
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (506,735)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 8,640,489
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (7,983,121)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (739,309)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 2,585,504
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (1,656,003)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 368,092
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 23,197,505
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 203,959
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (14,581)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (990,149)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,367,403)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 171,744,136
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.120
<PER-SHARE-NII> .610
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .010
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.610)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.060)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.070
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .760
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME IN THE AMOUNT OF
$0.004
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 101
<NAME> FRANKLIN GEORGIA TAX FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 169,585,233
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 178,962,707
<RECEIVABLES> 2,856,258
<ASSETS-OTHER> 909,151
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 182,728,116
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 781,650
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 781,650
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 172,612,669
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 1,422,594
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 747,179
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (69,534)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 25,857
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 9,377,474
<NET-ASSETS> 181,946,466
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 9,886,345
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,367,403)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 8,518,942
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 628,282
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (506,735)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 8,640,489
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (590,774)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (67,075)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 929,760
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (289,533)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 35,188
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 23,197,505
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 203,959
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (14,581)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (990,149)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,367,403)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 171,744,136
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.190
<PER-SHARE-NII> .540
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .020
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.540)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.060)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.150
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.310
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME IN THE AMOUNT OF
$0.003.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 241
<NAME> FRANKLIN KENTUCKY TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 60,441,733
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 63,890,666
<RECEIVABLES> 908,376
<ASSETS-OTHER> 97,700
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 64,896,742
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 381,138
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 381,138
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 61,929,048
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 5,622,682
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 4,734,902
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (19,790)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (842,587)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 3,448,933
<NET-ASSETS> 64,515,604
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 3,317,212
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (250,989)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 3,066,223
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 77,954
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 73,621
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 3,217,798
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (3,109,134)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1,245,441
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (474,917)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 117,256
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 10,304,874
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 23,121
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (920,541)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (377,311)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (485,014)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 59,866,374
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.450
<PER-SHARE-NII> .590
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .030
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.600)<F2>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> .000
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.470
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .420<F1>
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>EXPENSE RATIO EXCLUDING WAIVER 0.810%
<F2>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME IN THE AMOUNT OF
$0.004
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 181
<NAME> FRANKLIN LOUISIANA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 156,893,302
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 165,476,211
<RECEIVABLES> 2,866,293
<ASSETS-OTHER> 305,781
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 168,648,285
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 566,742
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 566,742
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 160,472,251
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 13,646,332
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 11,618,476
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (8,082)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (965,535)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 8,582,909
<NET-ASSETS> 168,081,543
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 9,140,227
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,203,341)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 7,936,886
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 488,946
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (690,249)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 7,735,583
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (7,769,373)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 3,221,007
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (1,499,172)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 306,021
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 28,690,960
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 175,633
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (1,454,481)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (908,906)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,203,341)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 155,255,593
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.610
<PER-SHARE-NII> .600
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (.010)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.610)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> .000
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.590
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .750
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT
INCOME IN THE AMOUNT OF $.0006.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 182
<NAME> FRANKLIN LOUISIANA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 156,893,302
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 165,476,211
<RECEIVABLES> 2,866,293
<ASSETS-OTHER> 305,781
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 168,648,285
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 566,742
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 566,742
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 160,472,251
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 856,418
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 382,710
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (8,082)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (965,535)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 8,582,909
<NET-ASSETS> 168,081,543
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 9,140,227
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,203,341)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 7,936,886
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 488,946
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (690,249)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 7,735,583
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (351,228)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 536,583
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (79,281)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 16,406
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 28,690,960
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 175,633
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (1,454,481)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (908,906)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,203,341)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 155,255,593
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.680
<PER-SHARE-NII> .540
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (.010)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.550)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> .000
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.660
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.310
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT
INCOME IN THE AMOUNT OF $.0004.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 231
<NAME> FRANKLIN MARYLAND TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 252,537,414
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 266,686,396
<RECEIVABLES> 3,956,634
<ASSETS-OTHER> 249,157
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 270,892,187
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,052,710
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 1,052,710
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 255,101,992
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 21,707,475
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 18,301,302
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (132,235)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 720,738
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 14,148,982
<NET-ASSETS> 269,839,477
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 13,945,587
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,890,312)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 12,055,275
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 1,358,390
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (76,966)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 13,336,699
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (11,532,435)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (871,879)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 4,888,050
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (2,046,845)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 564,969
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 46,320,226
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 290,235
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (43,595)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,369,242)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,890,312)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 247,061,072
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.640
<PER-SHARE-NII> .580
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .060
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.580)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.040)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.660
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .740
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT
INCOME IN THE AMOUNT OF $.004.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 232
<NAME> FRANKLIN MARYLAND TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 252,537,414
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 266,686,396
<RECEIVABLES> 3,956,634
<ASSETS-OTHER> 249,157
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 270,892,187
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 0
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,052,710
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 1,052,710
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 255,101,992
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 1,432,197
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 896,787
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (132,235)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 720,738
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 14,148,982
<NET-ASSETS> 269,839,477
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 13,945,587
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,890,312)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 12,055,275
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 1,358,390
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (76,966)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 13,336,699
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (611,480)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (56,008)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 747,540
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (250,371)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 38,241
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 46,320,226
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 290,235
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (43,595)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,369,242)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,890,312)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 247,061,072
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.720
<PER-SHARE-NII> .510
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .070
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.510)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.040)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.750
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.290
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT
INCOME IN THE AMOUNT OF $.003.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 111
<NAME> FRANKLIN MISSOURI TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 377,917,737
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 399,514,712
<RECEIVABLES> 6,791,344
<ASSETS-OTHER> 6,058,078
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 412,364,134
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 3,476,279
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,544,036
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 5,020,315
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 384,987,893
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 31,744,185
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 25,192,819
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 291,898
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 467,053
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 21,596,975
<NET-ASSETS> 407,343,819
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 20,143,987
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (2,564,602)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 17,579,385
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 490,267
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (605,052)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 17,464,600
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (17,097,301)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (848,423)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 8,870,628
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (3,032,017)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 712,755
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 89,254,263
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 487,303
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 860,224
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,860,465)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (2,564,602)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 353,837,301
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.230
<PER-SHARE-NII> .610
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .000
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.620)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.030)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.190
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .700
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE FRANKLIN
TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 112
<NAME> FRANKLIN MISSOURI TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 377,917,737
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 399,514,712
<RECEIVABLES> 6,791,344
<ASSETS-OTHER> 6,058,078
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 412,364,134
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 3,476,279
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,544,036
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 5,020,315
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 384,987,893
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 1,666,913
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 818,701
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 291,898
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 467,053
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 21,596,975
<NET-ASSETS> 407,343,819
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 20,143,987
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (2,564,602)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 17,579,385
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 490,267
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (605,052)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 17,464,600
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (677,489)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (35,015)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 904,387
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (97,734)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 41,559
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 89,254,263
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 487,303
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 860,224
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,860,465)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (2,564,602)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 353,837,301
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.270
<PER-SHARE-NII> .540
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .010
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.550)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.030)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.240
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.250
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM
THE FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 191
<NAME> FRANKLIN NORTH CAROLINA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND-CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 365,164,289
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 386,114,997
<RECEIVABLES> 6,421,496
<ASSETS-OTHER> 289,929
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 392,826,422
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 3,937,636
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,298,945
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 5,236,581
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 367,101,990
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 28,736,778
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 24,552,795
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 84,190
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (547,047)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 20,950,708
<NET-ASSETS> 387,589,841
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 19,706,684
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (2,578,843)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 17,127,841
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 832,636
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 413,367
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 18,373,844
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (15,908,188)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 6,146,411
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (2,617,169)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 654,741
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 70,140,909
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 156,799
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (1,379,683)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,834,435)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (2,578,843)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 349,118,281
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.110
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.600
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.060
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.610)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0.000
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.160
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 0.700
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
<FN>
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM
THE FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 192
<NAME> FRANKLIN NORTH CAROLINA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 365,164,289
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 386,114,997
<RECEIVABLES> 6,421,496
<ASSETS-OTHER> 289,929
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 392,826,422
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 3,937,636
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,298,945
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 5,236,581
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 367,101,990
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 3,119,698
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 1,645,295
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 84,190
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (547,047)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 20,950,708
<NET-ASSETS> 387,589,841
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 19,706,684
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (2,578,843)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 17,127,841
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 832,636
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 413,367
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 18,373,844
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (1,292,262)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1,597,185
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (190,827)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 68,045
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 70,140,909
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 156,799
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> (1,379,683)
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,834,435)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (2,578,843)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 349,118,281
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 12.180
<PER-SHARE-NII> 0.540
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> 0.060
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (0.540)
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> 0.000
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> 0.000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 12.240
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.250
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> 0.000
<FN>
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 131
<NAME> FRANKLIN TEXAS TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> year
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 132,333,563
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 139,763,616
<RECEIVABLES> 1,867,341
<ASSETS-OTHER> 24,642
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 141,655,599
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 8,029,248
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 658,357
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 8,687,605
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 125,210,584
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 11,183,309
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 11,183,221
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (129,623)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 456,980
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 7,430,053
<NET-ASSETS> 132,967,994
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 7,846,303
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,040,197)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 6,806,106
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 1,167,854
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (1,644,556)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 6,329,404
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (6,654,324)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (2,340,989)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 1,063,854
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (1,433,300)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 369,534
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 314,725
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 1,688,796
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (123,363)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (786,294)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,040,197)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 132,136,107
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.680
<PER-SHARE-NII> .600
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (.050)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.600)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.210)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.420
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .770
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME IN THE
AMOUNT OF $.0005.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 132
<NAME> FRANKLIN TEXAS TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 132,333,563
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 139,763,616
<RECEIVABLES> 1,867,341
<ASSETS-OTHER> 24,642
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 141,655,599
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 8,029,248
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 658,357
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 8,687,605
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 125,210,584
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 452,098
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 175,794
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (129,623)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 456,980
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> 0
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 7,430,053
<NET-ASSETS> 132,967,994
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 7,846,303
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (1,040,197)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 6,806,106
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 1,167,854
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> (1,644,556)
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 6,329,404
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (158,042)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (58,681)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 324,935
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (61,489)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 12,858
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 314,725
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 0
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 1,688,796
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> (123,363)
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (786,294)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (1,040,197)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 132,136,107
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.810
<PER-SHARE-NII> .530
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> (.030)
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.530)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.210)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.570
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.330
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1>INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME IN THE
AMOUNT OF $.0003.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 141
<NAME> FRANKLIN VIRGINIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 377,395,543
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 399,968,259
<RECEIVABLES> 6,397,610
<ASSETS-OTHER> 110,911
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 406,476,780
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 1,985,682
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 2,025,760
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 4,011,442
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 379,922,223
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 31,970,839
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 27,973,723
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (17,990)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (11,611)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 22,572,716
<NET-ASSETS> 402,465,338
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 21,347,613
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (2,670,495)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 18,677,118
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 267,647
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 703,456
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 19,648,221
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (18,108,898)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (789,058)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 6,206,679
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (3,001,436)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 791,873
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 57,079,860
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 194,415
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 548,232
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,958,381)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (2,670,495)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 377,118,764
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.880
<PER-SHARE-NII> .600
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .030
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.600)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.030)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.880
<EXPENSE-RATIO> .680
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1> INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME
IN THE AMOUNT OF $.0005.
</FN>
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 6
<LEGEND>
THE SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FRANKLIN TAX-FREE TRUST FEBRUARY 28, 1999 ANNUAL REPORT AND IS QUALIFIED
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<SERIES>
<NUMBER> 142
<NAME> FRANKLIN VIRGINIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> FEB-28-1999
<PERIOD-END> FEB-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 377,395,543
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 399,968,259
<RECEIVABLES> 6,397,610
<ASSETS-OTHER> 110,911
<OTHER-ITEMS-ASSETS> 0
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 406,476,780
<PAYABLE-FOR-SECURITIES> 1,985,682
<SENIOR-LONG-TERM-DEBT> 0
<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 2,025,760
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 4,011,442
<SENIOR-EQUITY> 0
<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 379,922,223
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 1,906,852
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 1,103,630
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> (17,990)
<ACCUMULATED-NET-GAINS> 0
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-GAINS> (11,611)
<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 22,572,716
<NET-ASSETS> 402,465,338
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 21,347,613
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (2,670,495)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 18,677,118
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 267,647
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 703,456
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 19,648,221
<EQUALIZATION> 0
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-INCOME> (780,625)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OF-GAINS> (38,432)
<DISTRIBUTIONS-OTHER> 0
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-SOLD> 916,509
<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> (154,863)
<SHARES-REINVESTED> 41,576
<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> 57,079,860
<ACCUMULATED-NII-PRIOR> 194,415
<ACCUMULATED-GAINS-PRIOR> 548,232
<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
<OVERDIST-NET-GAINS-PRIOR> 0
<GROSS-ADVISORY-FEES> (1,958,381)
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<GROSS-EXPENSE> (2,670,495)
<AVERAGE-NET-ASSETS> 377,118,764
<PER-SHARE-NAV-BEGIN> 11.950
<PER-SHARE-NII> .530
<PER-SHARE-GAIN-APPREC> .030
<PER-SHARE-DIVIDEND> (.530)<F1>
<PER-SHARE-DISTRIBUTIONS> (.030)
<RETURNS-OF-CAPITAL> .000
<PER-SHARE-NAV-END> 11.950
<EXPENSE-RATIO> 1.240
<AVG-DEBT-OUTSTANDING> 0
<AVG-DEBT-PER-SHARE> .000
<FN>
<F1> INCLUDES DISTRIBUTIONS IN EXCESS OF NET INVESTMENT
INCOME IN THE AMOUNT OF $.0004.
</FN>
</TABLE>
