Georgia House Bill HB358

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/23
• Report Pass: 3/21/23

Caption

Education; instruction on best practices for and risks associated with use of tampons; provide

Impact

By integrating teaching about the risks and practices regarding tampon usage into the sex education curriculum, HB358 aims to create greater awareness and understanding among young females about their health. This legislative move has the potential to improve the health literacy of students concerning menstrual health and could lead to a reduction in the incidence of TSS by ensuring that young women are well-informed about safe practices. Through these amendments, the bill also encourages discussions about reproductive health in the school system, thereby placing a spotlight on an often-taboo subject.

Summary

House Bill 358 establishes a framework for sex education in public schools in Georgia, specifically emphasizing the instruction of best practices and risks associated with the use of tampons. The bill mandates that local boards of education include topics on tampons as part of their sex education curriculum. It aims to inform students about not only the use of tampons but also associated health risks, notably toxic shock syndrome (TSS), an often fatal condition linked to tampon use. The legislation outlines a need to address these health concerns through education to promote safer practices among students.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding HB358, particularly regarding how sexual education is delivered in schools and the challenges of implementing a curriculum that includes open discussions on female health. Critics might argue that introducing specific health risks associated with tampon usage could instill unnecessary fear or anxiety in students. Additionally, there could be debates on the appropriateness of including discussions about tampons in school curricula, highlighting the overall cultural attitudes towards menstruation and female health education.