A bill for an act providing for access to feminine hygiene products in public school restrooms and making an appropriation.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jerome Amos and 20 co-sponsors

HF 333 ensures free access to feminine hygiene products in public school restrooms for grades 6-12, promoting student health and equity with state funding support.

Introduced, referred to Education.

#bathrooms #health #schooldistricts #schools

Summary of HF 333: Access to Feminine Hygiene Products in Public Schools

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HF 333
- Title: A bill for an act providing for access to feminine hygiene products in public school restrooms and making an appropriation.
- Status: Introduced, referred to Education.
- Introduced: February 12, 2025
- Classification: Bill
- Subject: Bathrooms, Health, School Districts, Schools

Purpose and Intent

HF 333 aims to ensure that students in grades six through twelve have access to feminine hygiene products at no cost in public school restrooms. The bill recognizes the importance of providing these essential products to support the health and well-being of students, thereby promoting a more inclusive and supportive school environment.

Key Provisions

Access to Products:

School districts are required to provide feminine hygiene products (including sanitary napkins and tampons) in at least half of the restrooms within school buildings serving students in grades six through twelve.
The supply of these products must be regularly replenished to ensure continuous availability.

Funding Appropriation:

An annual appropriation will be made from the state’s general fund to the Department of Education to cover the costs incurred by school districts in complying with this mandate.
The funding period is set from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028.

Reimbursement Process:

The Department of Education will establish a process for school districts to submit documented costs related to compliance on a quarterly, trimester, or semester basis.
School districts will be reimbursed for these costs, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder the implementation of this initiative.

State Mandate Funding:

The bill specifies that the costs associated with compliance will be covered by funds appropriated under this act and, for school years beginning on or after July 1, 2028, from state school foundation aid.

Impact

Who is Affected:

The primary beneficiaries of this bill are students in grades six through twelve attending public schools, who will gain free access to necessary feminine hygiene products.
School districts will be impacted as they will need to implement the provisions of the bill and manage the associated costs, which will be reimbursed by the state.

Timeline:

The bill is set to take effect with the funding beginning on July 1, 2025, and will remain in effect until June 30, 2028, after which the funding mechanism will transition to state school foundation aid.

Conclusion

HF 333 represents a significant step towards improving student health and equity in public schools by ensuring access to feminine hygiene products. By mandating their availability and providing state funding for compliance, the bill seeks to alleviate the financial burden on school districts while promoting a supportive environment for all students.