Wellness is a Justice Issue

Wellness is a Justice Issue – The Pink Tax Women Pay

from the UCC Wellness Ministries Newsletter June 2025 Edition

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          The “pink tax” identifies gender-based price discrimination. Initially, the pink tax focused on feminine hygiene products. It now also includes charging women more than men for essentially identical consumer items and services.

          The term “pink tax” refers to state sales tax on menstrual products, such as tampons and feminine pads. Period products are a necessary expense for attending school or work every week of the month. However, 26 states still classify menstrual products as luxuries instead of medical necessities.

          The National Organization of Women (NOW) estimates that women spend $20 on feminine hygiene products per menstrual cycle. On average, women earn about 84 cents for every dollar earned by white, non-Hispanic men, and the cohort of Latina/Hispanic women earn just 57 cents. This is a financial burden. Menstrual products are essential, and the cumulative “pink tax” can cost women thousands over their lifetimes.

          The Pink Tax Repeal Act has been introduced several times in Congress but lacks sufficient votes to advance in the House and Senate. Passing this bill will eliminate the “pink tax” nationwide and promote gender equality in product and service costs. This will provide financial benefits to women, which are essential for economic justice and progress.

          Learn more and check on the status in your state:

• Consumer Reports – The Pink Tax Costs People – Usually Women – Up to 48% More for Personal Care Products
• Kiplinger Newsletter –  Pink Tax: What Does Price Discrimination Cost Women?
• National Organization of Women (NOW) – The Pink Tax: The Cost of Being a Woman
• NBC News – States have been eliminating taxes on period products for Years. Here’s where you’ll still pay them.
• U.S. News – How Inflation Impacts the Pink Tax and the Period Product Industry