NEW YORK (WKBW) — Starting today, September 30, the "pink tax" ban goes into effect in New York State.
The ban prohibits businesses from charging different prices for "substantially similar" consumer goods or services that are marketed to different genders.
A release from the governor's office states numerous studies have found women pay more for the female version of the same product offered to men.
"New York is leading the nation in advancing women's rights and this milestone marks the latest step in New York's journey to break down barriers and put women on an equal playing field," said New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. "By abolishing the pink tax, women and girls will no longer be subject to harmful and unfair price discrimination and any businesses who fail to put an end to this despicable practice will be held accountable."
NYS says anyone selling products can avoid violating the new law by ensuring the price difference is based on the following:
- The amount of time it took to manufacture such goods or provide such services.
- The difficulty in manufacturing such goods or offering such services.
- The cost incurred in manufacturing such goods or offering such services.
- The labor used in manufacturing such goods or providing such services.
- The materials used in manufacturing such goods or providing such services.
- Any other gender-neutral reason for having increased the cost of such goods or services.
Violations could result in a $250 fine for the first and up to a $500 fine for the second.
If you believe a product or service is not in compliance with the new law you can contact the Division of Consumer Protection at 800-697-1220 Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm or file a complaint online.
