Missouri lawmakers try again to repeal ‘luxury tax’ on diapers and period products

Diapers and period products are no sign of a lavish lifestyle. But Missouri taxes them at the same rate as luxury items, labeling both as “personal property” — at least, it does for now.

Multiple bills have been introduced in the Missouri legislature that would lower the tax on diapers and period products. A similar effort last year was passed by the Missouri House, but the measure never became law.

Missouri has a 4.225% sales tax on period products and diapers, according to the nonprofit Missouri Appleseed. The state applies a 1.225% tax to groceries, and many health care-related products are not taxed at all.

Read more from St. Louis Public Radio.