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Senate passes pilot to put free menstrual-hygiene vending machines in select schools
Summary
On third reading the Senate approved SB 587, directing the Department of Health to run a pilot installing vending machines that dispense feminine-hygiene products at no cost in one school per grand division, prioritizing schools with the highest share of economically disadvantaged students; the amendment sets the pilot to begin in the 2026-27 school year.
The Senate passed SB 587 on third and final consideration after adopting an Education Committee amendment that narrows the pilot to one school per grand division and makes the bill effective for the 2026–27 school year.
Sponsor Senator Ackberry told colleagues the bill requires the Department of Health to establish and administer a pilot program to place vending machines in eligible schools that dispense feminine-hygiene products at no cost. The department is directed to prioritize schools with the highest percentage of economically disadvantaged students — defined in the bill as students who are homeless, in foster care, or eligible for free or reduced-price lunch — and to work with state and local health departments, nonprofits, churches and other organizations to supply products and accept donations.
Ackberry said the pilot is intended to address absenteeism tied to lack of access to feminine products, noting estimates that students miss school because they are unprepared. The amendment also encourages coordination with the governor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives to maximize resources.
The amendment was adopted by voice and the final bill passed with a recorded constitutional majority (Ayes 27, Nays 3). The motion to reconsider was laid on the table without objection.
