New York state is ditching the terms “feminine hygiene products” and “sanitary napkins” in favor of more inclusive language, according to Gov. Kathy Hochul.
Hochul this month signed into law the Health Equity and Opportunity legislative package, which replaces all instances and variations of the phrases in correction law, public health law and tax law, with gender non-specific terminology like “menstrual products and pads.” Dog Pee Mat
Additionally, the legislative package requires free menstrual products be provided to students in private middle and high schools; requires cosmetologists to receive training in all hair types and patterns, including natural hair types; and designates March 8 each year as International Women’s Day.
The package is aimed at further supporting New York’s commitment to gender inclusivity and providing necessary resources to the state’s youth.
“We know now more than ever before the positive impact inclusivity has on communities, and in New York we’re taking the steps to ensure equity for all from healthcare to haircare,” said Hochul. “From simply updating the way certain products are referred to, to expanding access to vital resources for those who may need them most, as time progresses, so should our laws.”
According to state Sen. Roxanne J. Persaud (D-Southeast Brooklyn), the bill to update the state’s language when it comes to menstrual products will help lift the stigma surrounding menstruation, and will aid in New York’s mission toward menstrual equity.
“Outdated terminology perpetuates stigma surrounding menstruation, which ultimately discourages conversations that enable access to basic resources,” said Persaud, who sponsored the bill. “This bill recognizes the simple reality that menstruation is not dirty, but rather a natural bodily function. In so doing, we take another step in lifting the stigma, combatting period poverty, and ensuring equal dignity for all individuals who menstruate throughout New York.”
State Sen. Iwen Chu, who sponsored the bill to provide free menstrual products to students in private schools, lauded Gov. Hochul for signing the package into law.
“A stigma around menstruation and menstrual inequities continues to impact thousands of students in New York State,” said the Democrat senator from Brooklyn. “Twenty-five percent of menstruating individuals do not have access to period products, which are a basic necessity that can be a burdensome expense for families. Without these products, students are likely to miss classes and school days.
“Menstruation is not a choice, but removing the barrier to product access is,” Chu added.
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