TX: Repealing the “Tampon Tax”
Texas: Proponents have previously called for eliminating sales tax on products such as tampons, sanitary napkins, and panty liners. Menstrual products are now tax-free in 24 states. In addition, medical necessities such as medication and bandages are exempt from sales tax in Texas. Proponents have called for the tax to be repealed, arguing that menstrual products should be classified as “wound care dressings” that prevent bacterial infection and “maintain a dry or moist wound environment.” Since wound dressings such as plasters are exempt from sales tax, advocates of eliminating the sales tax on menstrual products argue that taxing them is discriminatory against gender. Menstrual products are now tax-free in 24 states. Sadly, Texas is among the states where consumers still pay taxes on these products. Proposals to eliminate the sales tax on menstrual products, spearheaded by state Rep. Donna Howard, D-Austin, have come before the legislature every session since 2017. Unfortunately, none of those bills have made it to the governor’s desk.
“Every woman knows that these products are not optional. Glen Hegar, Texas Comptroller, stated. With prices and inflation rising, Hegar said the ability to exempt these products from taxes is a pressing need for Texans. “This is a small amount of money compared to Texas’ overall revenue outlook. The most recent sales estimate for the next two years (as of mid-July) puts Texas at $27 billion. Therefore, sales tax revenue on menstrual accessories would be about 0.1% over the next two years.
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