Texas ends sales tax on family care products

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Starting Friday, Texas’ sales tax on many family care products is now a thing of the past.

Going to the grocery store is now a little bit cheaper for customers buying feminine hygiene products, diapers, baby wipes, baby bottles and more.

“It’s about damn time,” said State Rep. Donna Howard , an Austin Democrat who has long fought for end of this tax that she said was unfair — especially for women.

Community 2 in 5 Americans have struggled with period poverty. Why are menstrual products still treated as a luxury, instead of a necessity?

“All of these things are essentials for daily living for many people,” she said. “All of these things can add up. So this provides some welcome relief for Texas families.”

Howard said it really helped that Speaker Dade Phelan made this bill a priority.

The average combined state and local sales tax rate in Texas is 8.2%.

The list of items also includes breast milk pumping products, maternity clothing, and wound care dressings.

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