Senator Zimmer introduces local nonprofit 'Glove for Red,' says school staff pay out of pocket for period products

The chair recognized the senator from Clinton, Senator Zimmer, who introduced Manja Pade and a delegation representing a local nonprofit identified in the reading as "Glove for Red." Senator Zimmer told the chamber the group is working to make menstrual products available so students do not miss school. “They are a local Iowa based 5 0 1 c 3 that discovered that many school staff are having to spend their own personal funds for period products their students need during the school day,” Senator Zimmer said.

Manja Pade and her group were welcomed to the gallery; Senator Zimmer asked colleagues to receive them and noted the group's aim to ensure students can "prevent school absences and focus on what matters most, their education." The session did not include a staff presentation, policy debate, or any vote related to the group's request; the introduction was ceremonial and intended to raise awareness among senators.

What happens next: the introduction places the nonprofit on the Senate’s radar; any legislative or budgetary response would require separate committee referral or bill sponsorship, none of which were announced during this session.