In a significant move towards addressing period poverty, New York has mandated that all middle and high schools provide free menstrual products in restrooms. Governor Mark Thompson announced this initiative, emphasizing that menstrual products are essential items, akin to toilet paper and soap, yet often present a financial burden for many families. With this law, New York joins California and Illinois in requiring schools to offer these necessary supplies to female students in grades six through twelve.
This legislation is a crucial step towards eliminating menstrual inequality. By abolishing the so-called “tampon tax,” which historically inflated the cost of menstrual products by 4 to 10 percent, New York has sent a clear message: menstrual products are basic necessities, much like toothpaste and deodorant. This new requirement builds upon a 2016 law that mandated free feminine hygiene products in public schools, shelters, and correctional facilities in New York City.
Not only does this initiative ensure that students have access to their essential needs, but it also promotes a culture that normalizes menstruation, challenging the stigma surrounding it. With free access to tampons and pads, school nurses will no longer have to solicit donations online, and teachers can avoid using their personal funds to provide for their students. This shift allows students to focus on their education and advocacy efforts, such as those highlighted in our other blog post about the home insemination kit.
The necessity for this legislation is underscored by statistics indicating that 42 percent of children in New York live in low-income households. For these families, purchasing menstrual supplies can sometimes mean sacrificing other essential needs, including food.
This initiative is part of Governor Thompson’s broader 2018 Women’s Agenda, which aims to combat dating violence, address the gender gap in STEM fields, and enhance mentorship opportunities for girls. The combination of free access to menstrual products and these additional measures represents significant progress towards gender equality.
In summary, New York’s initiative to provide free menstrual products in schools not only addresses the practical needs of students but also contributes to breaking down societal taboos around menstruation. For more insights on reproductive health, consider visiting Friday Favorites at Intracervical Insemination and check out the March of Dimes Pregnancy Week by Week, which offers valuable resources for families.