New Jersey Assembly Bill ACR155

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/22/22
• Refer: 9/22/22

Caption

Urges United States President to expand access to menstrual products in schools.

Impact

The bill raises significant issues of 'period poverty', which pertains to the difficulties faced by many school-aged students in accessing menstrual products and related hygiene facilities. It is noted that more than half of high school students who menstruate have reported being late, leaving early, or missing school altogether because of the lack of necessary items. This can lead to negative educational outcomes and impacts the overall participation of students in school activities, particularly among low-income individuals who face the additional burden of using inadequate alternatives to menstrual products.

Summary

ACR155 is a concurrent resolution introduced in the New Jersey Assembly urging the President of the United States to expand access to menstrual products in schools. The bill references Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which aims to eliminate discrimination based on sex and provide equal access to educational opportunities. Even though Title IX does not explicitly mention menstruation, the resolution argues that the intent of Title IX can be expanded to provide adequate support for individuals who menstruate, including access to menstrual products in all restrooms across federally funded educational institutions.

Contention

The proponents of ACR155 argue that expanding Title IX to include measures for free menstrual product access is fundamental to ensuring educational equity and reducing menstrual-related stigma and harassment in schools. However, potential contention may arise regarding how such expansions could be interpreted or implemented at the federal level. Critics might express concerns about the implementation logistics, funding sources for providing these products, and the practicality of ensuring compliance in all educational institutions.