NY Governor Andrew Cuomo
ALBANY – Legislation eliminating the state “tampon tax” is now in the hands of Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who plans to sign it into law.
The state Senate on Wednesday approved legislation that eliminates feminine hygiene products — including tampons, pads and sanitary napkins — from the 4 percent state sales tax. The legislation would also have the effect of wiping out any county sales taxes on the products.
Projected losses in sales tax revenue — around $12 million, split between state and local — were accounted for in the state budget enacted last month.
Supporters say certain medical products already are exempted from state sales tax, as are other necessities, such as certain foods and drinks, plus more obscure items including gift shop sales at a state-run veterans nursing home.
Feminine hygiene products, the bill’s backers contend, are “an undeniable necessity.”
Gov. Cuomo said “repealing this regressive and unfair tax on women is a matter of social and economic justice,” and he looks forward to signing the bill.
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