Michigan residents will no longer pay a 6% tax. This past month Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed the second bill that repeals Michigan’s tax on all menstrual products. On Feb. 3, 2022, the tax repeal went into effect which has many women hopeful for the future and the total elimination of tampon tax. Eliminating the tax is estimated to save women $4,800 during their lifetime. 

“The repeal will hopefully eliminate any excess financial issues associated with period products and will end period poverty “[Period poverty] is when people lack access to menstrual products and this can cause physical, emotional, and mental challenges,” Ella Woodruff ‘23 said. 

Many poor and underprivileged communities struggle to get access to menstrual products. With the tax repeal many hope that those who are underprivileged will have more access to menstrual products.

“I am super happy that Governor Whitmer signed the repeal because it will allow products to be more accessible to underprivileged communities and make them less costly,” Woodruff said. 

It is important that all states take a step forward and eliminate the tampon tax. The repeal of the tampon tax shines a light on the fact that women and their health still aren’t treated equally. 

“It’s very important for other states to do the same because it shows their support for women’s equality,” Petra Moelker ‘25 said. “And I think the repeal means a lot for women as it recognizes them as equal and worthy, while also bringing awareness to the fact that some women still can’t afford necessary hygiene products.”

For many, the tampon tax repeal is a step in the right direction because menstrual products are finally being considered necessities. 

“These products are necessary for people with periods and they shouldn’t be taxed because of this,” Estelle Metz ‘23 said. “Groceries and medication aren’t taxed in Michigan therefore these necessary hygiene products shouldn’t be taxed as well.”

People across Michigan view the tax repeal for women as a win and a way to destigmatize periods.

 “I think this is a great win for women and people with periods. It helps destigmatize periods and acknowledge the importance of menstrual products,” Metz said.

This article appeared in the February edition of The East Vision.