Bill Eliminating 'Tampon Tax' Goes To Gov. Brown's Desk
SACRAMENTO (CBS / AP) – California lawmakers are sending a measure to Gov. Jerry Brown to remove the state sales tax on tampons and other feminine hygiene products.
AB1561 would abolish the so-called "tampon tax," making tampons, pads, menstrual cups and menstrual sponges exempt from the state's 7.5 percent sales tax. At least eight states have already approved such exemptions.
The Assembly approved the bill unanimously Tuesday after the Senate previously did so. If Gov. Jerry Brown approves, the changes would take effect in 2017.
Supporters of the measure say feminine hygiene products are a necessity, not a luxury item, and that a tax unfairly burdens women who have no choice but to purchase them.
Democratic Assemblywoman Cristina Garcia of Bell Gardens calls it a step forward for gender equity.
© Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
