Bill > SB0573

This bill amends Tennessee law to require local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools to provide free feminine hygiene products in women's and girls' bathrooms and locker rooms regularly used by students in grades four through twelve. The bill changes existing language to explicitly include public charter schools in this requirement and mandates that these schools must (rather than are authorized to) provide these products. Additionally, the state will fully reimburse LEAs and public charter schools for the cost of these hygiene products. The bill also requires the state Department of Health to collaborate with the state board of education to create a public health campaign encouraging individuals and nonprofit organizations to contribute feminine hygiene products to eligible schools. The new requirements will take effect for the 2025-2026 school year, ensuring that students in intermediate and high schools will have free access to these essential products. This legislation aims to address menstrual equity by removing potential barriers to access for students and normalizing the availability of feminine hygiene products in schools.

Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0573&ga=114