House bill to exempt feminine care and some baby products from sales tax in limbo
Some advocates hope a House bill that would eliminate the so-called Pink Tax will pass out of committee. The gender specific pricing is where items for women cost more than those for men. The deadline to pass the measure is approaching fast.
House Bill 1238 would exempt baby formula, diapers, feminine care and contraceptive products from the state’s 7 percent sales tax. Democratic Representative John Hines of Greenville authored the bill. He says a woman brought the issue to his attention, saying the products are a growing expense for low-income families.
“I’ve got three sisters, three daughters. I was raised by my mom and grandma, so I’m not new to this. I understand the position that people end up being in and so you just have to be mindful,” said Hines.
Being mindful for Hines is talking to other House members about the bill, as it sits in the Ways and Means Committee. But he says most men are uncomfortable discussing feminine care products.
Read more: https://www.mpbonline.org/blogs/news/house-bill-to-exempt-feminine-care-and-some-baby-products-from-sales-tax-in-limbo/