Tampon tax bill advances

Posted on April 22, 2016
Melinda Bush
State Sen. Melinda Bush is sponsoring a measure to make feminine hygiene products and contraception more affordable for women.  (Photocourtesy www.ilga.gov)

By WFMB/FarmWeekNow.com

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois lawmakers took a step on Thursday to eliminate the state sales tax on what one legislator calls “unavoidable necessities” for women.

The so-called Tampon Tax bill advanced in the Senate. It will cut sales tax on tampons, sanitary napkins and adult diapers.

State Sen. Melinda Bush, a Grayslake Democrat, said the items are medical necessities and should not be taxed at a rate the luxury items are.

The House also approved a birth control bill that would allow women to avoid a complicated waiver process to get access to contraceptives that aren’t offered by their insurance.

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