Too frequently, women encounter a lack of readily available menstrual hygiene products. Whether at work, in public or at school, many times menstrual hygiene products are not available for purchase in bathrooms and are rarely available free of charge. A menstrual cycle is a monthly occurrence for many in Pennsylvania, but products are seldom accessible for thousands of women, girls and other individuals.
 
Our legislation would improve access to menstrual hygiene products by instituting a small but meaningful requirement of the Department of General Services to make menstrual hygiene products available in the bathrooms of all state buildings, including the Pennsylvania capitol building. Furthermore, the bill would require that a dispensing machine and disposal receptacle be installed and maintained in all bathrooms of state buildings as well. 
 
There is an expectation to have soap, paper towels and toilet paper in public bathrooms to address public hygiene needs. Menstrual hygiene is no different. This need should be addressed for one of the most natural events in a woman’s life.
 
Please join us in ensuring menstrual hygiene products are provided in Pennsylvania’s state buildings by co-sponsoring this legislation.
 

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 3786: P.L.177, No.175