Bill > S2640

This bill seeks to increase access to disposable menstrual products (defined as sanitary napkins, tampons, and underwear liners) across several types of public facilities in Massachusetts, ensuring they are provided free of charge and made available in a dignified manner. Specifically, the bill requires disposable menstrual products to be offered at no cost and in easily accessible locations that minimize stigma in five different settings: family shelters for homeless individuals, lockup facilities (city, town, and state), public elementary and secondary schools, correctional facilities, and county jails and regional lockup facilities. Each section of the bill amends a different chapter of Massachusetts General Laws to mandate these requirements, ensuring that menstruating individuals in vulnerable or confined situations have free and discreet access to necessary hygiene products. The bill's provisions aim to address period poverty and reduce barriers to accessing essential menstrual health products across public institutions, recognizing these products as a basic necessity rather than a luxury item.

Health and Social Services

Senate Committee on Ways and Means (Senate)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2640