The “tampon tax,” or the sales tax on menstruation supplies, has received a lot of attention lately. As important things for people who menstruate, many people think these products should be exempt from sales tax. So, is there a tampon tax in Vermont? No, is the response. One of the 15 states in the US without a sales tax on menstruation products is Vermont.
2019 saw Vermont adopt legislation to join other states like New York, Illinois, and Connecticut in abolishing the sales tax on menstruation products. Governor Phil Scott approved the bill, and it became a law on July 1st, 2020. As a result, menstruating individuals in Vermont are no longer required to pay sales tax on things like tampons, pads, menstrual cups, and other related items.
Although there is no tampon tax in Vermont, it’s crucial to remember that there still is one in several other states. In reality, menstrual products are subject to a sales tax in many states, which can add up over time. This has sparked a bigger discussion about menstruation equity and the requirement that all people who menstruate have access to inexpensive menstrual supplies.
So what is Burlington, Vermont’s sales tax? The sales tax rate in Burlington is 6%, the same as the state sales tax rate. As a result, all items sold in Burlington will be subject to a 6% sales tax, with the exception of necessities like menstruation products, which are exempt from the tax.
In conclusion, Vermont has followed other states in abolishing the sales tax on menstruation products and does not have a tampon tax. Menstrual items are exempt from the 6% sales tax that applies to the rest of the state and Burlington. This is a step in the right direction towards achieving menstruation equity and enabling everyone to have access to and afford basic necessities.