More states are beginning to eliminate the tampon tax, recognizing that menstrual products are essential and expensive, and should not be subjected to sales tax. According to a report from NPR, this movement is gaining momentum, which could significantly ease the financial burden on individuals who need to purchase these products every month.
This change in tampon tax legislation is a positive trend that appears to be growing. Currently, nine states have exempted menstrual products from taxes, while another seven are considering similar measures. In recent years, states like New York, Connecticut, Illinois, and Florida have successfully removed taxes on these necessary items. Meanwhile, Nebraska, Virginia, and Arizona have introduced relevant legislation this year, and Ohio passed a law in 2017.
Voices for Change
State Representative Lisa Thompson from Ohio expressed her satisfaction with the law, stating, “This is such a straightforward way to make essential medical products more accessible to women in our communities.” She emphasized that while the sales tax may seem minor, it can have a significant impact on a struggling family’s daily expenses. “When you’re deciding whether to buy groceries or pay for menstrual products, even small savings matter,” she noted.
When you consider the cumulative effect of tampon taxes, it’s frustrating to see how much women are paying. Assemblywoman Jordan Smith from California highlighted that women in her state spend an average of $7 monthly on tampons and pads, resulting in over 20 million dollars in taxes annually. She called this taxation “unjust” and a form of “gender inequality,” which is difficult to dispute.
The Inequity of Taxation
For those feeling exasperated by this disparity, it’s worth noting that Viagra is often not taxed in many states. The inequity is glaring. Fortunately, organizations like Period Equity are actively addressing tampon taxation through legal channels and have made significant strides, including advocating for New York City’s menstrual equity laws. They even collaborated with influencer Kim Parker to create a campaign that humorously highlights this absurd tax.
Despite these advancements, much work remains. California, where women are still burdened with millions in taxes for menstrual products, has yet to make any changes, and efforts in Utah have previously failed. We can only hope that more states will take action to rectify this situation. If they don’t, perhaps we should consider imposing similar restrictions on certain other products, as fairness should apply across the board.
Further Reading
For additional insights on home insemination and related topics, you might find our article on home insemination kits informative. Also, if you’re looking for a comprehensive resource, the CDC provides excellent statistics regarding infertility and pregnancy, which can be beneficial for many families.
Conclusion
In summary, the movement to abolish the tampon tax is gaining traction, signaling a much-needed shift in the recognition of menstrual products as essential. As states like Ohio take positive steps, it’s crucial for others to follow suit, ensuring equitable access to necessary health products for all.