Nevada Senate Bill SJR5

Nevada 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/23
• Refer: 3/14/23
• Report Pass: 4/6/23
• Engrossed: 4/11/23
• Refer: 4/11/23
• Report Pass: 5/3/23
• Enrolled: 5/15/23
• Passed: 5/15/23

Caption

Urges Congress to expand the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children to cover the purchase of menstrual products. (BDR R-980)

Impact

If SJR5 is adopted, it would influence federal policy regarding SNAP and WIC benefits, facilitating access to menstrual products as part of essential nutritional support. Currently, these programs do not cover menstrual supplies, which has created barriers for individuals relying on assistance programs. The approval of this resolution could pave the way for changes that ensure no one has to choose between buying food and menstrual hygiene products, which is essential for promoting public health and sanitation.

Summary

Senate Joint Resolution No. 5 (SJR5) encourages Congress to expand the eligible uses of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to include the purchase of menstrual products. This resolution is indicative of a broader movement to ensure access to necessary hygiene products for individuals with low incomes, highlighting the importance of menstrual health in overall health and wellness. The resolution has garnered support from a coalition of lawmakers who are advocating for increased access and affordability of such products.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise in the broader debate surrounding the inclusion of personal hygiene products under government assistance programs. Advocates argue that access to menstrual products is a fundamental aspect of health, while opponents may question the appropriateness of using public funds for such products. There is also the potential for discussions about the implications of this change on state budgets and federal regulations regarding nutritional assistance, as well as differing opinions on the responsibilities of government in providing essential health-related resources.