Good Samaritan Menstrual Products Act and Period Poverty Awareness Resolution

Floor Speech

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Ms. MENG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce two pieces of legislation in recognition of this week being National Period Poverty Awareness Week, and today being Menstrual Hygiene Day.

Madam Speaker, more than half of the U.S. population will likely menstruate every month for decades of their lives. Unfortunately, studies have shown that 1 in 4 women and girls report that they struggle to afford menstrual products. This lack of menstrual products is often called ``period poverty,'' and it can adversely affect a person's health and well-being. It is further heartbreaking that 1 in 5 women and girls report missing work or school due to a lack of access to menstrual products. Period poverty, in fact, is linked with self- perception and mental health. It also exacerbates the cycle of poverty by further marginalizing those who menstruate, causing them to withdraw from daily life, forego pay, or miss educational opportunities. It also impacts one's physical health, as the risk of infections increase with use of substitutes, such as paper towels or toilet paper, or because of an inability to change products as frequently as recommended.

This is unthinkable and simply wrong. Menstrual equity--one's equitable access to menstrual products--is not a luxury; it is a health right, and a human right.

Of course, this period poverty existed long before the COVID-19 pandemic; but today, with over 40 million Americans now out of work due to the pandemic, the socioeconomic and health challenges of individuals facing period poverty is further enhanced and heightened.

Madam Speaker, periods do not wait for pandemics. Ultimately, menstrual products are essential to the health and economic well-being of individuals in both overcoming and recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.

My resolution raises awareness regarding period poverty. It also urges local, State, and Federal agencies to ensure free access to menstrual products for individuals in need during the COVID-19 response, including for essential frontline workers; students; low- income families; individuals experiencing homelessness; and incarcerated and detained individuals.

Additionally, to encourage greater donation and distribution of menstrual products to individuals who need such products, I introduced the Good Samaritan Menstrual Products Act. In times of tragedy and need, Americans have always come together in the spirit of generosity. But alas, due to certain menstrual products like tampons being considered ``Class 2'' medical products, such designations deter the donation of such products--out of fear of liability issues. As such, liability concerns, even for products donated in good faith, limit both the supply and availability of menstrual products, as well as individuals' choices in how their menstruation needs are met.

As such, my bill--the Good Samaritan Menstrual Products Act--would provide the liability protection for donated and distributed menstrual products that are given and received in good faith. As we strive to expand one's ability to access these products, my bill would support the generosity of those who donate and distribute these products.

Madam Speaker, as I continue to fight for menstrual equity for all, I urge my colleagues to support both pieces of legislation so we can end period poverty--once and for all.

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