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HB 541

Public Schools - Restocking Menstrual Hygiene Products - Requirement

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Bagnall Tudball and 13 co-sponsors

Maryland public schools must provide free menstrual hygiene products in bathrooms to reduce period poverty and improve student attendance.

Hearing 2/18 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 541

Legislative bill overview

HB 541 requires Maryland public schools to stock and provide free menstrual hygiene products (pads, tampons, etc.) in school bathrooms and health offices. The bill mandates that schools establish restocking protocols to ensure consistent product availability for students who need them.

Why is this important

Period poverty and lack of access to menstrual products can cause students to miss school or experience academic disruption. By removing financial barriers, the bill aims to improve school attendance and educational equity, particularly for low-income students who may struggle to afford these essential products.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding: Schools must absorb the expense of purchasing and restocking products without clear state funding mechanisms specified, potentially straining already tight school budgets
  • Implementation burden: Schools need to establish operational systems for product restocking, maintenance, and hygiene protocols across multiple bathrooms and facilities
  • Scope questions: Unclear whether products must be provided at all grade levels or how schools should handle varying product preferences and needs among diverse student populations

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

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