In a significant development for student welfare, New York Governor James Matthews announced that all middle and high schools across the state will now be required to provide free menstrual supplies in restrooms for students in grades six through twelve. Matthews emphasized that “menstrual products are just as essential as toilet paper and soap, yet can impose a financial burden on families in need.” This initiative aims to combat menstrual inequality and period poverty.
With this new law, New York joins California and Illinois as one of the few states mandating schools to supply menstrual products to female students. Additionally, it marks the eleventh state to abolish the “tampon tax,” which has historically inflated prices by 4 to 10 percent. This recent measure builds on a 2016 law that ensured all public schools, shelters, and correctional facilities in New York City provided free feminine hygiene products.
By providing these essential items, schools are not only addressing basic needs but also promoting gender equality. Just as the removal of the tampon tax signaled that menstrual supplies deserve the same consideration as everyday items like toothpaste, this new requirement places them alongside toilet paper and paper towels, where they rightfully belong.
Furthermore, this initiative helps dismantle the stigma surrounding menstruation, treating it as a normal and natural bodily function experienced by a significant portion of the population. Practically, this legislation alleviates the burden on school nurses who often seek donations for menstrual products and allows teachers to stop using their personal funds to support their students.
The need for free menstrual products in schools is underscored by the reality that 42 percent of children in New York live in low-income households. As the Governor’s office noted, “For some families, the monthly cost of pads or tampons—ranging from $7 to $10—can mean choosing between menstrual care and food.”
This legislation is a vital part of Governor Matthews’ broader 2018 Women’s Agenda, which also seeks to address issues such as dating violence, close the gender gap in STEM fields, and enhance mentorship opportunities for girls. Together with ensuring easy and stigma-free access to menstrual products, these initiatives mark encouraging steps towards equality.
In summary, New York’s commitment to providing free menstrual products in schools is a crucial move towards addressing period poverty and promoting equal treatment for all students. It signifies a shift towards recognizing menstrual products as essential and normal, contributing to a more equitable society.
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