[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 100 (Thursday, May 28, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E497-E498]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  GOOD SAMARITAN MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS ACT AND PERIOD POVERTY AWARENESS 
                               RESOLUTION

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. GRACE MENG

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 28, 2020

  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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