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S 2640

An Act to increase access to disposable menstrual products

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Barrett and 21 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill mandates free menstrual products in schools and public facilities to reduce period poverty and improve student attendance and equity.

Read; and referred to the committee on Health Care Financing
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Bill Summary · S 2640

Legislative bill overview

S 2640 mandates that Massachusetts schools and public facilities provide free disposable menstrual products to students and visitors. The bill has already passed the Senate unanimously and is now under review by the Health Care Financing Committee for implementation and funding mechanisms.

Why is this important

Period poverty—the inability to afford menstrual products—causes some students to miss school days, affecting educational outcomes and economic mobility. Providing free access removes a financial barrier to attendance and participation while addressing a documented public health equity issue affecting low-income menstruating individuals.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and cost: The bill requires identifying which state or local budgets will cover product procurement and distribution, potentially impacting school operating budgets or requiring new appropriations
  • Implementation logistics: Schools must establish systems for discreet product distribution and determine which facilities (bathrooms, nurse offices, etc.) will stock products, requiring infrastructure changes
  • Scope and sustainability: Questions remain about product types/brands provided, restocking frequency, whether colleges/universities are included, and long-term fiscal sustainability as product costs fluctuate

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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