This bill aims to alleviate the financial burden on families by exempting sales and use tax on essential child care products, including diapers, car seats, and baby clothing, starting January 1, 2026. The legislation recognizes the critical need for these items for the health and well-being of infants, young children, and vulnerable adults, particularly in low-income and single-parent households. The bill highlights that the high costs of these essentials can lead to significant stress and financial strain, with many families struggling to afford basic necessities.
To implement this tax exemption, the bill introduces new sections to chapters 82.08, 82.12, and 82.14 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), specifying that the tax will not apply to the sales and use of diapers and essential child care products. It also provides definitions for "diaper" and "essential child care products," which include a range of items designed for infants and children under five. Additionally, the Department of Revenue is tasked with adopting rules to facilitate the implementation of this exemption, including maintaining a publicly available list of qualifying products.