Minority Office — Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 14, 2022
CONTACT:
Cathy Schroeder,
(850) 487-5833,
Kristian Diaz
DIAPER SALES TAX EXEMPTION APPROVED IN 2022 STATE BUDGET
During the 2022 Legislative Session, Senator Lauren Book introduced language to make children’s diapers tax free in Florida. Since first being elected in 2016, Senator Book has filed the legislation each year to bring some much-needed relief for Florida families. Today, upon the passage of the state budget and the final day of the Legislative Session, the language was adopted. The benefit will take effect on July 1, 2022.
“The care of young children comes with tremendous costs,” said Senator Book. “Florida families are facing especially difficult times right now and we owe it to them to no longer tax necessary healthcare items like diapers.”
According to the National Diaper Bank Network, one in three families report experiencing diaper need. Research indicates babies use between 2,500 and 3,000 diapers per year, with the most diapers being necessary for newborns.
Book continued, “Disposable diapers cost families up to $80 per month per child, which creates a significant cost burden and is an unavoidable expense. This tax exemption will help ensure that a parent never hesitates before putting a fresh, clean diaper on their child when needed.”
Included in the tax exemption are single-use diapers, reusable diapers, and reusable diaper inserts. Also included is clothing and shoes intended for children ages 5 or younger.