Senate approves Bush's plan to repeal tax on tampons

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois came one step closer to repealing sales taxes on feminine hygiene products like tampons and menstrual cups Thursday as the Illinois Senate passed legislation by State Sen. Melinda Bush.

“For 20 years, these items were classified as unavoidable necessities for women until the full tax was reinstated in 2009,” said Bush, D-Grayslake. “In a year that could very well end with the election of our first woman to the office of president of the United States, it’s time for Illinois to join the nationwide conversation about the unfair ‘pink taxes’ women face.”

The legislation would exempt tampons, pads and menstrual cups from the statewide 6.25 percent sales tax – the same tax classification as products like shampoo.

The legislation is Senate Bill 2746. It passed the Illinois Senate 52-1 Thursday and proceeds to the Illinois House for consideration.