Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR87

Introduced
3/10/23  
Refer
3/15/23  
Report Pass
4/4/23  
Engrossed
4/5/23  
Refer
4/11/23  
Report Pass
4/17/23  

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Accounting And General Services To Provide Menstrual Products At No Cost In State Buildings Under The Jurisdiction Of The Department Of Accounting And General Services That Are Open To The Public And Contain Public Restrooms.

Impact

The passage of SCR87 would significantly impact state policies related to public health and accessibility. By making menstrual products available for free, the resolution aims to alleviate the health risks and societal stigma associated with menstruation. It would ensure equitable access to hygiene products, particularly for women, girls, and gender-diverse persons who may struggle financially to afford these essential items. This initiative could set a precedent for other states and lead to broader discussions about menstrual equity across the country.

Summary

SCR87, also known as the Menstrual Equity Resolution, proposes that the Department of Accounting and General Services in Hawaii provide menstrual products at no cost in state buildings that are open to the public and contain restrooms. The resolution highlights the growing concern of period poverty, which affects menstruating individuals' ability to meet their basic needs, such as education, health, and employment opportunities. Additionally, it addresses gender inequality and the financial burdens associated with obtaining menstrual products, especially in light of Hawaii's high cost of living.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the resolution appears to be largely positive, especially among advocates for women's health and equality. Supporters argue that providing free menstrual products is a critical step towards addressing period poverty and ensuring dignity for menstruating individuals. However, there may be underlying concerns from segments opposing the bill regarding budget allocations and the implementation of such programs within state infrastructure, which can lead to debates on resource distribution.

Contention

Notable points of contention relate to the funding and logistics of maintaining the free menstrual product program. While supporters emphasize the importance of menstrual equity and public health, concerns about the operational costs and sustainability of such an initiative may arise from those worried about the state's budget. Additionally, the resolution's inclusion of gender-neutral restrooms aligns with a broader movement towards inclusivity; however, opposition may emanate from individuals who oppose changes that promote gender diversity in public policies.

Companion Bills

HI SR78

Same As Requesting The Department Of Accounting And General Services To Provide Menstrual Products At No Cost In State Buildings Under The Jurisdiction Of The Department Of Accounting And General Services That Are Open To The Public And Contain Public Restrooms.

HI HCR132

Same As Requesting The Department Of Accounting And General Services To Provide Menstrual Products At No Cost In State Buildings Under The Jurisdiction Of The Department Of Accounting And General Services That Are Open To The Public And Contain Public Restrooms.

Previously Filed As

HI SCR210

Requesting The Department Of Accounting And General Services And Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Work With The City And County Of Honolulu To Establish Community Gardens On Underutilized Public Land.

HI SCR239

Requesting The Department Of Accounting And General Services, Department Of Land And Natural Resources, And The City And County Of Honolulu Department Of Parks And Recreation To Provide Universal Changing Accommodations In All State Facilities, State Parks, And City And County Parks.

HI SCR163

Requesting The Department Of Accounting And General Services To Fund The Establishment Of One Full-time Equivalent Program Director Position, One Full-time Staff Member Position, And Costs Necessary To Establish A Full-time State Building Code Council Office.

HI SCR46

Requesting The Department Of Accounting And General Services To Establish A Working Group To Plan And Construct A Hawaii First Responders Memorial.

HI SCR164

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism And Department Of Accounting And General Services To Conduct A Cost Analysis Study Regarding Consolidating West Hawaii State Offices Into One Complex.

HI SCR157

Requesting The Hawaii Police Department To Prioritize An Increased Police Presence In Ocean View And Collaborate With The Department Of Accounting And General Services To Conduct A Feasibility Study On Locating A Police Substation In Hawaiian Ocean View Estates.

Similar Bills

CA AB367

Menstrual products.

CA AB230

Menstrual products: Menstrual Equity for All Act of 2021.

CA SB59

Battery electric vehicles: bidirectional capability.

NJ A3567

Requires each public institution of higher education to convene menstrual equity task force.

IL HB3093

MENSTRUAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS

HI HR133

Requesting The Department Of Accounting And General Services To Provide Menstrual Products At No Cost In State Buildings Under The Jurisdiction Of The Department Of Accounting And General Services That Are Open To The Public And Contain Public Restrooms.

HI SR78

Requesting The Department Of Accounting And General Services To Provide Menstrual Products At No Cost In State Buildings Under The Jurisdiction Of The Department Of Accounting And General Services That Are Open To The Public And Contain Public Restrooms.

HI HCR132

Requesting The Department Of Accounting And General Services To Provide Menstrual Products At No Cost In State Buildings Under The Jurisdiction Of The Department Of Accounting And General Services That Are Open To The Public And Contain Public Restrooms.