Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1285

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/5/24
• Refer: 2/6/24

Caption

Schools; directing the State Department of Education to establish certain grant program to provide menstrual products to students in certain grades. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

The bill is expected to have a positive impact on public health and student well-being by destigmatizing menstrual care and promoting hygiene among students. It also aims to mitigate absenteeism related to menstruation by ensuring that menstrual products are readily available and accessible. Grant amounts will be allocated based on the number of female students enrolled in participating schools. This could lead to a broader recognition of menstrual health as a critical component of student support services.

Summary

Senate Bill 1285 aims to establish a grant program administered by the State Department of Education to provide menstrual products at no cost to students in grades five through twelve. This initiative seeks to ensure that students have access to necessary menstrual products in a discreet manner, thus removing barriers that may inhibit their comfort and attendance during school days. Under the proposed program, schools will receive funding to purchase these products and ensure their availability in gender-neutral and accessible restrooms as well as other strategic locations within school facilities.

Contention

While the bill is generally framed as a progressive step towards educational equity and healthcare access, there may be some contention surrounding the allocation of funds and the management of the grant program, particularly in terms of its implementation and sustainability. Critics may question the source of funding and whether sufficient resources will be allocated to meet the demand across school districts, especially in lower-income areas. Additionally, there may be discussions on the necessity and scope of such programs within educational budgets.

Implementation

The bill prescribes that the funding will be contingent on legislative appropriations and that unspent funds can be carried over for future use, ensuring that there are always resources available to implement this initiative. The State Board of Education is tasked with creating rules to facilitate the program's functionality, reinforcing the importance of proper oversight and efficient management for it to be effective and beneficial for all students.