Ohio reintroduces bill to remove sales tax on feminine hygiene products

A bill that would repeal the sales tax on feminine hygiene products and baby diapers has been reintroduced by two Ohio lawmakers.

The legislation was introduced by State Rep. Brigid Kelly (D-Cincinnati) and State Rep. Niraj Antani (R-Miamisburg).

“Making medically necessary products more accessible is not a partisan issue, it’s a commonsense way to ensure all Ohioans have what they need to live healthy, productive lives,” said Kelly. “Exempting feminine hygiene products and baby diapers from the state sales tax will benefit thousands of Ohioans. At a time when too many hardworking families are struggling to make ends meet, putting even a little money back in the pockets of consumers will go a long way.”

“As a conservative Republican, I am strongly in favor of tax cuts that will help Ohioans keep more of their paychecks,” said Antani. “Feminine hygiene products as well as baby diapers are medical necessities and should not be taxed.”

It has received bipartisan support from both parties in the House. The proposal passed the Ohio House of Representatives near the end of the legislative session in 2018, but was not picked up by the Senate.

Sponsors say the bill would remove the sales tax on feminine hygiene products such as tampons, pads, and menstrual cups.

According to a fiscal analysis from the Legislative Service Commission, nearly $4 million in annual taxes in made by women in Ohio from purchasing feminine hygiene products. If the bill is signed into law, Ohio would join 15 other states in exempting feminine products from sales tax.

You may recall, the state of Colorado tried to pass a similar law in 2017, but lost the battle. To learn more, click here.