The District of Columbia could join the states that have eliminated the "tampon tax.''
The D.C. Council listened to testimony on Wednesday on a bill that would exempt tampons, child and adult diapers and similar products from sales taxes.
Wanda Steptoe, executive director of New Endeavors, an organization that helps homeless women get back on their feet, said she welcomed the move to pass the bill.
"Being tax exempt for these types of products would make a tremendous difference to these families who are already struggling," she said.
Council member Anita Bonds said in a statement that sales taxes on such products essentially force people to pay taxes "because of their disability or gender.''
Bonds, a Democrat, introduced the bill, and six other members of the 13-member council signed on as co-introducers.
Council finance chairman Jack Evans told News4 that he'd move to pass the bill as soon as possible.
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Five states have eliminated taxes on tampons, and several others have gotten rid of taxes on diapers.
Items that are already exempt from taxes in the District include pacemakers, wheelchairs, prosthetic limbs and prescription drugs, including erectile-dysfunction drugs.
