WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1881

TO ADD MENSTRUAL DISCHARGE COLLECTION DEVICES TO THE LIST OF ITEMS EXEMPT FROM SALES AND USE TAX DURING THE SALES TAX HOLIDAY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Denise Ennett

HB 1881 aimed to exempt menstrual products from sales tax during holidays, easing costs for individuals who menstruate and promoting access to essential health items.

Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1881

Summary of House Bill 1881

Bill Number: HB 1881
Title: To Add Menstrual Discharge Collection Devices to the List of Items Exempt from Sales and Use Tax During the Sales Tax Holiday
Status: Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment
Introduced: March 20, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1881 aimed to amend Arkansas's sales tax holiday provisions by adding menstrual discharge collection devices to the list of items exempt from sales and use tax during this holiday. The intent of the bill was to alleviate the financial burden on individuals who purchase these essential health products, thereby promoting accessibility and affordability.

Key Provisions

The bill proposed the following significant changes to existing law:

  1. Definition of Menstrual Discharge Collection Devices:

    • The bill defined "menstrual discharge collection devices" to include:
      • Tampons
      • Panty liners
      • Menstrual cups
      • Pads
      • Period underwear
      • Clothing specifically marketed for menstrual use (e.g., period swimwear, running shorts, and sleep shorts).
    • It explicitly excluded grooming and hygiene products from this definition.

  2. Exemption from Sales and Use Tax:

    • The bill sought to add menstrual discharge collection devices to the list of items exempt from sales and use tax during the sales tax holiday, which would provide financial relief to consumers purchasing these items.

  3. Effective Date:

    • The provisions of the bill were set to take effect on the first day of the calendar quarter following the effective date of the act.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1881 would have:
- Benefited individuals who menstruate by reducing the cost of essential menstrual products during the sales tax holiday.
- Encouraged the purchase of menstrual health products by making them more financially accessible.
- Potentially influenced public health outcomes by promoting the use of safe and effective menstrual products.

Legislative Actions

  • March 20, 2025: The bill was filed, read for the first time, and referred to the Committee on Revenue & Taxation in the House.
  • May 5, 2025: The bill died in the House Committee at Sine Die adjournment, meaning it did not progress to a vote or further consideration.

Conclusion

House Bill 1881 represented an effort to enhance the accessibility of menstrual health products in Arkansas by exempting them from sales tax during designated holidays. Although it did not advance through the legislative process, the bill highlighted ongoing discussions about menstrual equity and the financial implications of purchasing essential health products.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.