Texas House passes bill to exempt menstrual products and baby supplies from sales tax

The Texas House of Representatives has passed a bill that would exempt menstrual products and selected baby supplies from sales tax, bringing relief to thousands of families across the state.

The bill, House Bill 300, which passed with a resounding 145-2 vote, has been designated a top priority by House Speaker Dade Phelan, R-Beaumont, following the landmark ruling to overturn Roe v. Wade. If passed by the Senate, the legislation would be a significant step forward in supporting Texans who have long struggled to access essential care products, such as diapers, sanitary pads, and tampons.

Proposed by Rep. Donna Howard, D-Austin, the bill would remove sales tax from a range of products, including diapers, baby wipes, bottles, maternity clothing, products for pumping breast milk, and menstrual supplies. The amendment from Rep. Bryan Slaton, R-Royse City, also extends the tax exemption to adult diapers. This legislation would provide immense relief to Texans, particularly low-income families who have been struggling to afford basic necessities.

Despite the estimated cost of $194 million in lost sales tax over two years, according to the Legislative Budget Board, the bill has garnered significant support from a diverse range of individuals and organizations. At a House hearing in March, several individuals, including Emily Adams, vice-chair of the Austin Diaper Bank, testified in support of the bill, highlighting the economic benefits and the critical need for such legislation. Emily Adams pointed out that many families are unable to send their children to day care because they cannot afford diapers. This results in a loss of wages for parents and caregivers, causing small businesses to face a hiring desert. This legislation is critical to addressing this challenge and boosting the economy of the state.

The bill is expected to move to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration. Houston Republican Sen. Joan Huffman, who chairs the committee, and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, have both expressed their support for these common-sense tax exemptions, which would benefit Texans across the state.

This legislation is a welcome relief for Texans, particularly women and families, who have long been struggling to access essential care products. The movement to remove sales tax on menstrual products has gained momentum in recent months, as the state banned abortion and Republican legislators sought to show their support for mothers and children. The inclusion of maternity care items in the bill is also a significant step towards supporting expectant mothers and families. With the passage of this legislation, Texas would join 24 other states that have already exempted menstrual products from sales tax.