An $83 billion budget is heading to the governor's desk, and if approved it would end Florida's so-called "tampon tax."
For some women, paying taxes on products like tampons feels like a conspiracy.
"It's not fair; I think we've always been oppressed just a little bit," said Kathy Hartman, a mother of two daughters.
For others, it's just plain wrong...period.
"Just like food it's things people depend on and they absolutely need. they can't go without these things," said a female shopper.
They can't go without them, and soon Florida women may be able to go without the sales taxes on those products.
Monday the state legislature approved a budget that would slash the so-called "tampon tax," a term used to describe sales tax levied on feminine hygiene products.
Under the current law, tampons and pads are considered a toiletry or cosmetic item which is taxable.
State Senator Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples, who sponsored the bill, says it was easy to get lawmakers on board, especially after taking a look at what items are tax exempt.
"It's quite surprising. I jokingly said hair restoration products like Rogaine is exempt from sales tax. Now tell me, that's a necessity?
Hundreds of medical items and foods are listed as nontaxable products, including hair regrowth products containing Minoxidil, lip balm, baking goods and even bunion pads. However, sanitary pads for menstruation don't make the cut.
"One of the things we pride ourselves on is we do not tax necessities. We don't tax medicine, we don't tax a myriad of products," said Passidomo.
Passidomo says the "tampon tax" cost women about 15 million dollars a year.
"It's not a great deal but that's $15 million women in florida should not have to pay," said kathleen passidomo.
If the budget plan is approved the "tampon tax" repeal would go into effect on January 1st.
