Access to period products in schools is a crucial issue that affects students across the country. In more than half of the states, legislation has been put in place to ensure that K-12 schools provide free period products, such as pads and tampons, for students. This is especially important for low-income students who may not have access to these essential products at home.
According to data from the Alliance for Period Supplies, twenty-one states now require K-12 schools to have pads and tampons available for students. The laws vary in terms of which grades and schools should stock these products, with some states even extending the requirement to include elementary schools. However, only about half of the states provide funding to support this initiative.
Lacey Gero, the director of government relations for the Alliance for Period Supplies, emphasizes the importance of funding in addition to the mandated requirement. States that have provided funding along with the requirement have seen more successful implementations, ensuring that students have access to period products consistently.
Pennsylvania is on track to become the next state to legislate access to period products in schools. The state House recently passed legislation that would create a $3 million grant fund for low-income districts to purchase period products. This funding is crucial in ensuring that all students have access to the products they need to stay in school and focus on their education.
Overall, ensuring access to period products in schools is a necessary step towards supporting the well-being of students. By providing free products and funding to schools, we can help to alleviate the financial burden that many students face and ensure that they can fully participate in their education without worrying about their basic needs.
