The Rhode Island Senate has introduced a resolution to support "Period Poverty Awareness Week," scheduled for May 12-18, 2025. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by women and girls, particularly those living in poverty, regarding access to menstrual hygiene products. Despite the state's previous legislation to eliminate taxes on period supplies, many individuals still struggle to afford these essential items, leading to negative health, social, and educational consequences. The resolution highlights the alarming statistics that indicate a significant number of women and girls miss school or work due to inadequate access to period products, which can also contribute to feelings of shame and stigma.

The resolution calls for increased accessibility and affordability of menstrual products, as well as efforts to break the stigma surrounding menstruation. It emphasizes the importance of dignity and justice in addressing period poverty and advocates for policy changes and funding to support these goals. The Senate has authorized the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to relevant organizations, including Period Equity at Brown University and Amenity Aid in Warwick, to further promote awareness and action on this critical public health issue.

Introduced By: Senators Kallman, Lauria, Quezada, Valverde, DiMario, Vargas, Gallo. Date Introduced: May 15. Referred To: Recommended for Immediate Consideration.