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Bill

A 3351

Requires DHS and DOH to submit federal waivers to cover menstrual products under NJ FamilyCare, SNAP, WIC and establishes State funded benefit if federal waiver is denied; appropriates $2 million for State benefit.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Linda Carter and 12 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill requires pursuing federal waivers to cover menstrual products under assistance programs, establishing a $2M state benefit if waivers denied.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Community Development and Women's Affairs Committee
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Bill Summary · A 3351

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 3351 directs New Jersey's Department of Human Services and Department of Health to pursue federal waivers allowing menstrual products to be purchased through existing assistance programs (NJ FamilyCare, SNAP, WIC). If federal waivers are denied, the state would establish its own menstrual product benefit program funded by $2 million in state appropriations.

Why is this important

Menstrual products are currently classified as non-food items under federal assistance programs, making them ineligible for purchase despite being essential health supplies. This bill addresses period poverty—the inability to afford menstrual products—which research suggests affects economic participation, school attendance, and health outcomes for low-income individuals and families.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal feasibility: Obtaining federal waivers for SNAP and WIC would require approval from USDA, which has historically been resistant to expanding eligible product categories beyond food and infant formula
  • Cost and sustainability: The $2 million appropriation may underestimate ongoing annual costs if the state benefit becomes widely used; funding mechanisms and long-term budgeting are unclear
  • Program scope and equity: Defining eligibility criteria for a state-only program raises questions about who qualifies and whether it creates disparities between federal and state beneficiaries, or leaves gaps for individuals above assistance thresholds but still struggling with period poverty

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

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