Ohio Repeals Sales Tax On Feminine Hygiene Products

COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio has repealed its sales tax on tampons and other feminine hygiene products. Governor Mike DeWine signed the repeal into law this week, joining about 12 other states in dumping so-called "pink taxes."

Senate Bill 26 passed into law on Wednesday afternoon. The legislation was originally designed to give teachers a tax credit on supplies purchased for the classroom, but an amendment also axed the "pink tax" on feminine hygiene products.

The end of the "pink tax" was authored by two state representatives, Republican Niraj Antani and Democrat Brigid Kelly.

“I am appreciative of the governor for signing this bill making medically necessary products more equitably accessible to women and girls in our state. This is an important step towards ensuring that everyone who has a period is able to lead a healthful life and fully participate in their communities as they choose," Kelly said in a statement.

Kelly had previously attempted to get rid of the tax on feminine hygiene products, but her bill stalled in the Ohio Senate. She reintroduced the bill this year, got bipartisan support and now Ohio has killed the "pink tax."

"Through the passage of this bill, Ohioans are witnessing the removal of a gender-based tax discrimination. Women will see a significant amount of savings over the course of their lifetime with the repeal of the pink tax. It is my hope that other states who have not repealed this tax will recognize the great strides the Ohio legislature has taken and follow suit," Antani said.