SPRINGFIELD - New parents could get a break with the high price of diapers under a state law being proposed by Senator Martin Sandoval (D-Chicago).

“Diapers have a sales tax that is way too high, it’s ridiculous that such an important item isn’t taxed the same as groceries or medicine,” Sandoval said.

Illinois currently has two sales tax rates; a general merchandise rate of 6.25 percent and a food and drug rate of 1 percent. Sandoval is pushing for diapers and wipes to be added to the 1 percent rather than the latter. Groceries, medicine, and certain other medical products are currently under the 1 percent tax rate.

“We just gave everyone a 25 percent tax break, it’s about time we gave single moms and working families a break too.  I care about the hard working families of Illinois especially the ones who struggle to buy basic necessities for their children, said Sandoval. “Every little bit helps.

”Of the base 6.25 percent, 5 percent goes to the state, 1 percent to the municipality where the purchase was made, and 0.25 percent goes to the county where the purchase was made. Under new legislation, all of the 1 percent would go the municipality wherethe sale was made.

Senate Bill 61 awaits debate in the Illinois Senate