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HB 1219

"McElroy-Brown Hygiene and Menstrual Care Access Act; enact to establish program to provide students access to free hygiene and menstrual care products.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Otis Anthony

Mississippi bill would provide free menstrual and hygiene products to students statewide to reduce period poverty and school absences; died in committee February 2025.

Died In Committee
#education #publichealthandhumanservices
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Bill Summary · HB 1219

Legislative bill overview

HB 1219 would establish a state program providing free hygiene and menstrual care products to students in Mississippi schools. The bill aims to ensure all students have access to these essential products regardless of economic circumstances.

Why is this important

Lack of access to menstrual products has documented links to school absences, academic performance gaps, and period poverty—particularly affecting low-income students. Several states and school districts have implemented similar programs, with supporters citing improved attendance and reduced stigma around menstruation as key outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding mechanism: The bill would require state or local resources; fiscal impact and funding source were not detailed in available materials, raising questions about budget allocation priorities
  • Scope and implementation: Unclear whether products would be available in all schools, specific grades, or only certain student populations, affecting implementation complexity and equity
  • Public health vs. parental responsibility debate: Some argue product access is a family responsibility rather than government obligation, while others view it as a public health equity issue similar to breakfast/lunch programs

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

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