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Senate passes bill to require menstrual products in public restrooms
Summary
Senate Bill 7.15 passed after debate over scope and funding; proponents said requiring menstrual products in public restrooms will reduce period poverty and health risks, while questions focused on definition of "public restrooms," supply amounts and whether businesses may charge for products.
The youth senate approved Senate Bill 7.15, which would require menstrual products to be supplied in public restrooms. Proponent Savannah Newville told the chamber that requiring products in public facilities would address 'period poverty' and prevent hygiene-related health problems.
Newville described the bill as flexible — allowing restroom owners to decide whether to provide products free or charge a nominal amount — and said implementation could mirror existing school systems that supply products in K–12 restrooms. "Toilet paper is free in bathrooms. What's the difference in a hygiene product?" Newville asked in closing remarks.
Debate focused on what the law would cover (parks, government restrooms, privately owned but publicly accessible restrooms), whether businesses could charge for products, and how compliance would be monitored. The proponent said the law would require an "adequate amount" for the number of users but left specific supply levels and enforcement details to implementing authorities.
After floor debate and closing remarks, the chamber voted to pass the bill.
