This bill mandates that higher education institutions in Minnesota, specifically the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities and the University of Minnesota, provide students with free access to menstrual products, such as pads and tampons, in restrooms used by students. The bill introduces a new section, designated as [135A.1365], which outlines the requirement for these institutions to ensure the availability of menstrual products at no charge.
Additionally, the bill includes appropriations from the general fund to cover the costs associated with supplying these menstrual products. It allocates funds for fiscal years 2024 and 2025 to both the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities and the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, ensuring that the necessary supplies and equipment are provided to meet the new requirements.