New Jersey Assembly Bill A3213

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22

Caption

Requires school districts to provide menstrual products in all school buildings.

Impact

The implementation of A3213 is expected to have significant implications for state and local education policies concerning health and hygiene. By requiring that every school comply with these provisions, the state aims to alleviate barriers faced by students who may otherwise struggle to access menstrual products. Costs incurred from providing these products will be covered by the State, thus relieving financial pressure on individual districts and ensuring uniformity in hygiene standards across educational institutions.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3213 mandates that all school districts in New Jersey must provide free access to menstrual products for students and staff across all educational facilities serving grades K-12. The bill specifies that menstrual products, which include tampons and sanitary napkins, are to be easily accessible in women's restrooms, all-gender restrooms, and at least one men's restroom. This legislation aims to ensure that students can manage their menstruation with dignity and without stigma, fostering an environment of support and care in schools.

Contention

Notably, the bill acknowledges the decreasing age of puberty and the potential for menstruation to begin as early as age eight. This means that the availability of menstrual products in elementary schools is just as crucial as in middle and high schools. While the bill has garnered support for promoting health and equality, there may be concerns regarding budget allocations for districts already facing financial constraints, as well as debates surrounding the appropriateness of supplying menstrual products in various school environments.