California 2021-2022 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AR112

Introduced
5/26/22  
Introduced
5/26/22  
Refer
5/27/22  
Refer
5/27/22  
Passed
6/2/22  

Caption

Relative to Period Poverty Awareness Week.

Impact

The bill builds on previous legislative measures aimed at addressing period poverty, including the provision of menstrual products in public schools, colleges, and universities. Notably, California has eliminated the sales tax on menstrual products and allocated funds for free menstrual product distribution in specific counties. By declaring Period Poverty Awareness Week, the bill aims to foster increased awareness and community support. It also aids in galvanizing resources to combat the shortfalls in access and distribution, particularly in incarcerated settings where access is often limited and supplies are of poor quality.

Summary

AR112, introduced by Assembly Member Cristina Garcia, addresses the issue of period poverty in California. It highlights that approximately half of the population menstruates and underscores the challenges faced by individuals who struggle to afford menstrual supplies. The bill recognizes period poverty as a significant public health issue, which adversely affects the health, well-being, and economic opportunities of those impacted. The Assembly proclaims the week of May 23 to May 29 as Period Poverty Awareness Week to bring attention to this ongoing social challenge and promote improved access to necessary products.

Contention

Though the bill is a step toward alleviating period poverty, there are concerns regarding the continual necessity of further legislative action. Critics might argue that simply recognizing week-long observances is not enough to address systemic issues surrounding menstrual product access in less privileged communities. Moreover, the disparities in product quality and distribution in prisons and juvenile facilities are particularly contentious points, emphasizing the need for more robust and immediate interventions to ensure all individuals have access to adequate menstrual health products.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA SR36

Relative to Period Poverty Awareness Week.

CA AR34

Relative to Period Poverty Awareness Week.

CA AR75

Relative to Groundwater Awareness Week.

CA ACR63

Mosquito Awareness Week.

CA ACR164

Mosquito Awareness Week.

CA SR72

Relative to Maternal and Mental Health Awareness Month.

CA SB59

Battery electric vehicles: bidirectional capability.

CA AR83

Relative to Menopause Awareness Month.

CA AR59

Relative to Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month.

CA ACR76

Firefighter Mental Health Awareness Week.

Similar Bills

CA AR34

Relative to Period Poverty Awareness Week.

CA SR36

Relative to Period Poverty Awareness Week.

CA SB59

Battery electric vehicles: bidirectional capability.

CA AB367

Menstrual products.

CA AB246

Product safety: menstrual products: perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.

HI SB2821

Relating To Menstrual Equality.

HI HB481

Relating To Menstrual Equity.

HI SB954

Relating To Menstrual Equity.