Illinois State House considers repealing tampon tax

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WLS) -- State lawmakers are considering getting rid of a controversial tax on feminine hygeine products.

Critics say the so-called tampon taxes are unfair to women. In Illinois, feminine hygiene products are taxed 6.25 percent because the state classifies tampons, pads and menstrual cups as "luxury items".

Now lawmakers have introduced a new bill that could eliminate the tax once and for all.

"We're really talking about here is a bigger global issue and that's that women have been paying more for things throughout their entire lives and maybe don't even know it," says State. Sen. Melinda Bush (D-31).

The bill to eliminate the tampon tax has already passed the Illinois State Senate. It now goes to the State House for consideration.