By Bob Katzen
This bill would exempt from the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax a wide array of baby and infant supplies including breast pumps, cribs, strollers, bottles and wipes. The measure also exempts apparel for children aged 5 and under including clothing, shoes, diapers and other accessories.
“This bill was filed to reduce the financial burden on families by making essential baby and children’s items more affordable,” said Samantha Beaudry, a spokesperson for the sponsor Rep. Marcus Vaughn (R-Wrentham). “It’s also a way to recognize that many of these goods are necessities rather than luxuries.
Exempting baby and children’s supplies from sales tax is a necessary move, especially given how costly child-rearing has become. I think it will make a real difference for families, especially those with more than one child.