South Carolina Representative Nancy Mace announced proposed legislation on January 12, 2026, at Falls Park on the Reedy in Greenville County. The bill targets the state’s 6-9% sales tax on over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, aiming to fully exempt them. This would cover any product with an FDA “Drug Facts” label, like pain relievers, cold remedies, allergy meds, antacids, and first-aid supplies.
Current Context in South Carolina
SC is among 35 states taxing OTC meds, adding to household costs—averaging $450 annually nationwide. Prescription drugs are already tax-free here, but OTC items face the burden, which Mace called an unfair extra hit during illness or high living costs.
States Already Exempting OTC Meds
Mace’s proposal draws from models like Texas (exempt since 2015) and these others:
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Virginia
- Minnesota
- New Jersey
- Maryland
- Vermont
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Washington, D.C.
This move would align SC with these peers, easing family budgets amid rising expenses.
Potential Impact
Exempting these essentials could save households $25-40 yearly (based on national averages and SC’s tax rate), promoting accessible health care without government revenue loss from prescriptions. It’s framed as “common-sense” relief, especially relevant now with flu season and economic pressures.
If you’re tracking SC politics or local health policy in the Upstate area, this fits ongoing pushes for tax relief—similar to recent debates on grocery taxes. Interested in the bill’s number, status, or similar Greenville County initiatives?
