State lawmakers host bipartisan roundtable on diaper needs

By Connor N. Smith | Spectrum News 1

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Parents, advocates and leaders gathered Wednesday at the Capitol Annex for a bipartisan public roundtable to spotlight diaper need in Kentucky and explore solutions to reduce the financial burden on families. 

The discussion, hosted by State Sen. Cassie Chambers Armstrong, D-Louisville, and State Rep. Vanessa Grossl, R-Lexington, offered an opportunity for community members to share personal stories and policy recommendations. According to a release, conversations focused on how a lack of access to diapers creates ripple effects across a family’s ability to work, attend school and access child care.

Since joining the state senate, Chambers Armstrong has been vocal about the high cost of diapers and has filed legislation to exempt diapers from Kentucky’s sales and use tax. 

“As a mom of young kids, I understand how important diaper access is for families,” she said. “It is something one in three families in Kentucky faces, and it is time our policies catch up to that reality. When we support families with the basics, we are also supporting healthier children, stronger workforces and more stable communities.”

Chambers Armstrong testified before the Interim Joint Committee on Appropriation and Revenue in Sept. 2024 about the potential impact of a diaper tax exemption. The release said in states where such policies have passed, families purchase more diapers, use fewer medications to treat preventable rashes and see measurable economic benefits. 

Grossl also offered remarks about her commitment to easing the financial strain on Kentucky families.

“As lawmakers, we know firsthand how something as simple as access to diapers can interrupt a family’s financial stability,” Grossl said. “Parents of young children and those caring for older or disabled adults shouldn’t have to carry the burden of choosing between buying diapers and paying for groceries.”

Grossl filed House Bill 282 earlier this year. The legislation would have exempted diapers from Kentucky’s sales and use tax. It aimed to provide immediate financial relief to not only families with young children but also those who care for disabled individuals or older adults.

“Diapers are a necessity that far too many cannot afford,” Grossl added. “We have a duty to step up for families across the commonwealth who are struggling to access the bare essentials and give them the tools they need to thrive.”

Several speakers at Wednesday’s discussion called for stronger coordination between state agencies and nonprofits, as well as broader tax reforms to ease burdens on working families, the release said.

“This roundtable made it clear that the need is real, the solutions are within reach and Kentuckians across party lines are ready to act,” Chambers Armstrong said.

For more information about Chambers Armstrong or Grossl’s legislative work or how to learn to support future efforts, visit legislature.ky.gov.