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Mayor Bowser Highlights Upcoming Diaper Tax Repeal as Part of Her Investments to Make DC Affordable for Families

Wednesday, September 4, 2019

(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser and At-Large Councilmember Anita Bonds reminded residents and businesses of the upcoming elimination on Washington DC’s sales tax on diapers, which will go into effect on October 1, 2019. The diaper tax repeal was made possible by a $4.5 million investment in the Mayor’s Fiscal Year 2020 (FY20) budget, along with the support of Councilmember Bonds.

“I have committed my Administration to find– and more importantly fund – programs and ideas that put money back in the pockets of DC families,” said Mayor Bowser. “A dollar here and a dollar there may not seem like a lot, but over time, it adds up. Combined with other cost-saving policies like the child care tax credits, these programs are making it easier for families to stay in and afford life in DC.”

The diaper tax repeal builds on Mayor Bowser and Councilmember Bonds’ work last year to successfully eliminate the District’s sales tax on feminine hygiene products.

“On October 1, the District of Columbia will join other jurisdictions from across the nation and the world in totally eliminating a burdensome sales tax on menstrual hygiene products and diapers for adults and children,” said Councilmember Bonds. “This marks a turning point in DC’s efforts to achieve gender equality and improve conditions for those living on a low or fixed income. By fully funding the pink tax legislation, we have ensured that our tax dollars will work for all.”

On average, a pack of diapers in Washington, DC costs about $11.00 (before tax), and a newborn baby uses about 10-14 diapers each day during the first few months of infancy.

Mayor Bowser’s FY20 Budget provided several other investments focused on making the District more affordable for families.

  • $2.5 million to make permanent the Keep Childcare Affordable tax credit, providing up to $1,000 per child for families who have children enrolled in a licensed DC child care facility
  • $4.7 million for Families First DC, a new plan to support family strengthening and stabilization by providing integrated services and using a community-based approach to help meet families’ needs
  • $1.6 million to establish Connected Schools to serve as neighborhood hubs by providing wraparound services for students, families, and community members
  • $52 million to expand child care and early childhood education opportunities at Old Randle Highlands, Old Miner, and Thurgood Marshall

The elimination of the diaper tax is part of the Mayor’s commitment to supporting mothers and their babies, complementing her second annual National Maternal and Infant Health Summit, which will take place on September 10, 2019. The Summit will convene parents, health professionals, and public officials from across the nation to find solutions in maternal and infant health. For more information, visit dcmaternalhealth.com.