The state Senate Appropriations Committee approved a measure to exempt firearms, ammunition and related goods, such as gun safes, from state and local sales taxes. 

A lobbyist for the Arizona Citizens Defense League argued the move is consistent with other items exempt from sales tax for being health and safety products. He added the bill could help families balance budgets. 

Democratic Sen. Sean Bowie doubted those arguments. 

"Are there folks that want to buy firearms who are saying, 'Well, if I didn't have to pay a sales tax on it I would buy it, otherwise I won't’?” Bowie asked.

Bowie added other health items, such as feminine hygiene products, are still subject to local and state taxes. The bill now moves to the full Senate for a vote.