State Rep. Greg Martin has introduced legislation aimed at providing financial relief to families by permanently removing the sales tax on essential baby products.
House Bill 0784 would eliminate the sales tax on diapers, infant formula and baby wipes.
Rep. Martin’s proposal comes on the heels of recent bipartisan discussions in the legislature, where lawmakers have shown support for removing sales tax on necessities like groceries.
“Raising a child is expensive, and basic necessities like diapers and formula can add up quickly,” Rep. Martin said. “This legislation will provide immediate relief to families, allowing them to allocate more resources to their children’s needs.”
The bill would apply only to products specifically designed for infants and children, such as diapers, wipes and formula.
“Being pro-life means advocating for the well-being of both the unborn and the families that bring them into the world,” Rep. Martin said. “This bill is about helping new parents after birth, making sure they have the resources to provide for their children. I’m committed to advocating for the well-being of Tennessee’s young families, and this legislation is a step toward that.”
Costs for baby products can be substantial. The U.S. Surgeon General reports that formula alone can cost a family more than $1,200 in the first year. Diapers can cost nearly $1,000 annually, and the National Diaper Bank Network found that in 2023, almost half of families struggled to afford enough diapers for their babies.
“Strengthening families is key to Tennessee’s growth and success,” Rep. Martin said. “By removing this tax and continuing to advocate for young families, we can make Tennessee the best state for raising a family.”