JEFFERSON CITY — Families who are struggling to afford diapers are closer to seeing some relief via a sales tax exemption, thanks to the inclusion of Senate Bill 57, sponsored by Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, R-Arnold, onto House Bill 594 and 508, which passed the Senate on April 7 and is headed back to the House of Representatives for final approval.

Senator Coleman has filed legislation similar to Senate Bill 57 for several years, hoping to ease the financial burden for low-income families and align Missouri with several other states that already exempt essential items from sales tax. Missouri’s Constitution prohibits taxation on essentials and necessities, but diapers and feminine hygiene products are taxed as luxury items.

“Diapers are a basic necessity for families, not a luxury. Exempting them from sales tax is a commonsense reform that aligns Missouri’s tax policy with everyday realities families face,” said Sen. Coleman. “By eliminating this burden, we are supporting parents, improving affordability and ensuring our tax code reflects the importance of early childhood needs.”

The initial purpose of HB 594 was to authorize an income tax deduction for capital gains. Several provisions were added to the bill during debate. If the House of Representatives approves the Senate’s changes, the bill will move to the governor’s desk.

To learn more about Sen. Coleman, please visit her official Missouri Senate website at senate.mo.gov/Coleman.