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SB 573

Health Care - As introduced, requires LEAs and public charter schools to provide free feminine hygiene products in all women's and girl's bathrooms and locker rooms used by students in grades four through 12 in certain schools; requires a public health campaign dedicated to encouraging individuals and nonprofit organizations to contribute or drop off feminine hygiene products to eligible schools. - Amends TCA Title 49; Title 63; Title 67 and Title 68.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Sara Kyle

Tennessee public schools must stock free menstrual products in girls' bathrooms (grades 4-12) and promote community donations to offset costs and improve student attendance and dignity.

Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Education Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 573

Legislative bill overview

SB 573 mandates that Tennessee LEAs (Local Education Agencies) and public charter schools provide free feminine hygiene products in women's and girls' bathrooms and locker rooms for students in grades 4-12. The bill also establishes a public health campaign to encourage individuals and nonprofit organizations to donate these products to eligible schools.

Why is this important

Period poverty—when students lack access to menstrual products—has documented effects on school attendance, academic performance, and student dignity. Several states have implemented similar policies. This addresses a practical barrier to educational equity, though it creates new operational and financial responsibilities for schools already managing tight budgets.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding: Schools must determine who covers product procurement costs (district budget, state funding, donations, or combination) with no explicit funding mechanism specified in the bill language
  • Implementation logistics: Unclear how schools will stock, maintain, and replenish products; manage inventory; and ensure equitable distribution across multiple facilities
  • Scope limitations: Grades 4-12 specification may exclude younger students experiencing early puberty, and "women's and girl's bathrooms" language may not address non-binary or transgender student access
  • Grade 4 starting point: Some educators question whether grade 4 is the appropriate threshold, as not all students menstruate at that age

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

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