The League of Women Voters of Alabama supports the removal of sales tax on hearing aids to ensure equitable access to health care and improve quality of life. Hearing aids are essential medical devices but can be financially burdensome. The Alabama Legislature recently passed HB51, amending Section 40-23-4 of the Code of Alabama 1975, to exempt sales tax on hearing aids at the state level effective October 1, 2024. However, local ordinances must be approved for this exemption to apply to county and municipal taxes. Removing the sales tax will make hearing aids more affordable, promote health equity, and reduce financial barriers for underserved populations. We commend the state for this legislation and urge cities and counties to pass ordinances to remove the local sales tax. We also encourage our members to advocate for this change by reaching out to local representatives.
Understanding the Costs
Hearing aids can cost between $1,000 and $6,000, depending on technology, services, and brand, with advanced features adding to the cost.
Why Hearing Aids Are Essential
>> Improved Quality of Life:
- Communication: Enhances communication, crucial for personal relationships and social engagement.
- Mental Health: Reduces risks of social isolation, depression, and anxiety.
>> Cognitive Health:
- Preventing Cognitive Decline: Helps maintain cognitive functions, reducing the risk of dementia.
>> Safety:
- Environmental Awareness: Ensures awareness of surroundings for personal safety.
- Fall Prevention: Improves balance and spatial awareness, reducing the risk of falls.
>> Employment and Productivity:
- Workplace Effectiveness: Improves performance at work by enhancing the ability to follow conversations and participate in meetings.
>> Educational Impact:
- Learning: Critical for children and students, as untreated hearing loss can impede educational development.
Supporting Statistics
- Approximately 38 million American adults have some degree of hearing loss, yet only about 20% use hearing aids.
- Untreated hearing loss can increase the risk of dementia by up to five times and is associated with higher risks of depression, anxiety, and social isolation.
Take Action
To reduce the financial burden on individuals who rely on hearing aids, support the exemption of sales tax on these essential devices. Contact your City Council representative or County Commissioner to help draft and pass an ordinance that aligns with the state’s recent amendments. This effort will make hearing aids more affordable and accessible, demonstrating our commitment to the community’s well-being and health.
Click here for a sample email to send to your local representative:
Let’s take action and ensure all cities and counties across the state pass this ordinance! Together, we can make a difference.
