Schiff Hardin Provides Pro Bono Representation in Class Action Lawsuit Alleging Unconstitutional Tampon Tax in Michigan

Schiff Hardin is providing pro bono representation to Period Equity, the country’s first law and policy organization dedicated to making menstrual products affordable, safe, and accessible to those in need, in a class action lawsuit against the State of Michigan and its Department of Treasury for sex-based discrimination in taxing menstrual products.

Filed days before the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, the lawsuit alleges that Michigan’s collection of sales and use taxes on the purchase of menstrual products, which are deemed medical necessities, is in violation of equal protection under the Equal Protection Clauses of the United States and Michigan Constitutions. Schiff Hardin is also representing the three Michigan women who are the named plaintiffs in the lawsuit: Clare Pfeiffer, Emily Beggs, and Wei Ho.

The lawsuit is part of a national campaign Period Equity launched last year called “Tax Free. Period.” to eliminate the “tampon tax” – the sales tax that 30 states charge on menstrual products.

The Schiff Hardin pro bono team includes Joanne Faycurry, Elise Yu, and Michael Showalter.

Read news coverage of the lawsuit in The 19^th and learn more about Period Equity and its campaign.