Feminine and baby care items to be exempt from Texas’ state sales tax

Texas families will get major tax relief under a new law that will end the sales tax on diapers, wipes, period supplies and other necessities starting Sept. 1, with the signing of Senate Bill 379

Items listed in the law that will be exempt from sales tax include:

• Diapers, including those for adults
• Baby wipes
• Feminine hygiene products, including tampons, pads, and menstrual cups
• Maternity clothing
• Breast pumps, pumping bras, storage bags, and containers
• Baby bottles

The new law was applauded by the Texas Coalition of Diaper Banks, comprised of five diaper banks that distribute millions of diapers annually to families in need, that advocated for its passage. Removing the sales tax on diapers will save Texas families an average of $87 each year, enough to purchase a month’s supply of diapers or pay for other basic needs.

“The passage of this bill is monumental as it will reduce the expense of essentials for Texas families. This is important, especially in assuring the health and well-being of Texas babies, seniors and women,” said Jorge Medina, CEO of Texas Diaper Bank, in a statement.

The Texas Legislature also passed a measure in its biennial state budget that will, for the first time, provide $2.8 million for Coalition diaper banks to expand their diaper distribution to areas of Texas that now are not served.

Texas also joins 17 other states in exempting sales tax on diapers, according to the National Diaper Bank Network.