The world is changing in more ways than one politically. As we progress as a globe, our legislature progresses as well. Last month, India passed a law that exempted feminine hygiene products such as tampons and pads from receiving a sales tax. While it’s a small gesture in the grand scheme of life, it is a step in the direction of making all of these necessary products more affordable for those that may need them.
This month, Ohio Representative, Brigid Kelly, is looking to resemble India’s legislature here in the United States Kelly. Along with other members of the Ohio House of Representative, Kelly has introduced Ohio HB-61. Ohio HB-61 is a bill that seeks to exempt feminine hygiene products from sales tax in the state of Ohio. In an effort to further the cause, Kelly published an op-ed that argues in her favor. Kelly writes, “The issue of making medically necessary products more accessible is not a Republican or Democratic issue, and it is not about men versus women — it’s an economic and a quality of life issue. Access to sanitary products while menstruating is essential for women to lead a healthy life; to regularly attend school, work, personal events; and to fully participate in one’s community.” Kelly also wrote, “Every woman knows what it’s like to hide a tampon up her sleeve, whether she’s a 15-year-old high school student or a 35-year-old state representative. We know what it’s like to fear standing up from a chair at a meeting or event, or to think there won’t be enough change in the bottom of our purses to buy a pad in the ladies’ room.”
The bill is still in the works in the state of Ohio, but could be a major topic of conversations as we come closer to the midterm season. If passed, the bill would have ramifications on how the rest of the country taxes feminine hygiene care products.
