LA may offer free tampons and pads in public bathrooms

Los Angeles is considering a plan to provide free tampons and sanitary napkins at public restrooms, joining a national movement pushing for what advocates describe “menstrual equity.”

The motion comes on the heels of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s recent budget proposal calling for an end to sales taxes on diapers and menstrual products. Other cities are also moving to make feminine hygiene products available for free at public facilities to those who need them.

The goal, backers say, is to supply tampons and pads “just as public restrooms provide toilet paper and soap for patrons.”

The motion, introduced by Councilman Bob Blumenfield several months ago, notes that California already prohibits public schools from charging students for menstrual products. State law also requires schools with low-income students to provide free feminine hygiene products to girls in grades 6-12.

Blumenfield wants every public restroom - from local parks to City Hall - to provide menstrual care items.

“It’s inherently wrong that half the population is financially burdened simply because of their gender,” said Jake Flynn, Blumenfield’s communications director. “It would greatly benefit people with financial or logistical restraints (such as) homeless women or young girls, who may not have simple access to convenience stores or pharmacies.”

Jennifer Weiss-Wolf, cofounder of Period Equity, which bills itself as the nation’s first law and policy organisation fighting for menstrual equity, lauded the move. She said LA’s size and influence could encourage other cities to adopt similar policies.

“It’s a great signal going into 2020,” said Weiss-Wolf, the author of “Periods Gone Public: Taking a Stand for Menstrual Equity.”

California isn’t the only state aiming to make the female healthcare items more accessible. In Utah, a menstrual equity initiative in Salt Lake City kicked off a pilot programme to provide free tampons and sanitary napkins in some city buildings. Both Nevada and New York have eliminated socalled “tampon taxes.” And on a global scale, Scotland provides all students at schools, colleges and universities with free period products. - Tribune News Service