Legislation will lift financial burden on working families
LANSING, Mich., Oct. 27, 2021 — With strong bipartisan support, the Michigan Senate voted to repeal the “tampon tax.” Similar legislation passed the Michigan House of Representatives with Democrats unanimously backing the reform. This has been one of the top priorities of House Democrats for several previous sessions. The bills would exempt tampons, maxi pads, reusable menstrual cups and other menstrual hygiene products from taxation. Currently, menstrual products are subject to sales and use taxes — leading Michiganders to pay millions annually in taxes for these medically necessary items.
“Our tireless work is finally paying off with this legislative win,” said state Rep. Padma Kuppa (D-Troy), who has championed the policy this term with her own bill. “We are so close to providing those who menstruate with a measure of financial relief. By eliminating the unfair tampon tax, we help working families and take one more step toward equitable taxation. This legislation must be enacted swiftly to help those struggling with period poverty.”
“I am glad my colleagues see this issue as the public health crisis it is and agree that sanitary products are essential items that people cannot live without,” said state Rep. Tenisha Yancey (D-Harper Woods), sponsor of similar legislation. “No one should have to pay more for any product tied to their health and well-being. I am thankful for all of the people who made this possible, from my colleagues to the activists who brought this to our attention. I’m proud of all the hard work that has been done to push this vital legislation closer to the finish line, helping to end period poverty.”
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Contact:
State Rep. Padma Kuppa
(517) 373-1783
State Rep. Tenisha Yancey
(517) 373-0154