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On Monday, Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin rejected the proposed ballot initiative. (Photo: ARKANSAS TIMES)
Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin Rejected Tampon Tax Removal Ballot Proposal
KNWA reported that Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin rejected a proposed ballot initiative aimed at exempting feminine hygiene products from sales and use tax due to language ambiguities. The initiative, introduced on September 11, lacked clarity on whether it would affect the state’s compliance with the Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Agreement, specifically regarding “grooming and hygiene products.”
The Arkansas Attorney General’s Office recommended that the group advocating for the tax exemption revise the proposal’s wording, popular name, and ballot title. This rejection prevents the initiative from appearing on the November 2024 ballot.
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Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin Stoods By His Decision
According to KATV, Arkansans spend nearly $3 million annually on taxes for period products, which only contributes 0.01% to the state’s total revenue but burdens families. The Arkansas Attorney General’s rejection of the ballot proposal was based on its failure to specify the exclusion of other grooming and hygiene products. However, according to David Couch, the attorney who helped draft the proposal, the proposal had clearly defined feminine hygiene products and listed which items wouldn’t be taxed.
The ballot measure’s title and text submitted to the Arkansas attorney general’s office provided a clear definition of feminine hygiene products, including items such as tampons, panty liners, menstrual cups, sanitary napkins, and similar tangible personal items designed for feminine hygiene during the human menstrual cycle.
David Couch argued that this issue highlights a broader problem, where the Arkansas Attorney Generals require revisions to ballot measures. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin stood by his the rejection, stating they follow the Streamline Sales and Use Tax Agreement definitions to avoid ambiguity.
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