The Committee on Women and Gender Equity are on the path to improving access to menstrual products for females and those menstruating in New York City.
New York City Council will vote on new legislation regarding the expansion of definitions and menstrual products provision requirements. As part of Introduction 1055-A, all prior phrasing of “feminine hygiene product” would be replaced by more gender-inclusive terminology of “menstrual product” in all laws, documents and other material from the City. This includes products such as menstrual cups, tampons, and menstrual pads.
The bill would require yearly provision reports from the Department of Education to specify the available menstrual products to students in a DOE-leased/operated facility. Moreover, it would expand the age group indicated in the 2016 Menstrual Equity Package from grade 6 to grade 4. This would aid more girls, many of whom begin their cycle before grade 6, with greater access to menstrual products.
NYC’s Department of Education in collaboration with the Commission on Gender Equity would be responsible for sharing information on menstrual products to every student between grades 4 through 12.
Additionally, the Department of Correction would also be mandated to provide annual reports on the amount of menstrual products ordered and distributed to those in custody by the department.
Discover more about the menstrual bill on the New York City Council website here.