Establishes the last full week of May as "Period Poverty Awareness Week."
Impact
The resolution points to a significant societal issue; with around 10% of New Jersey women living in poverty, many menstruators are forced to make difficult choices between purchasing food or menstrual supplies. SJR121 seeks to underscore how period poverty can hinder not only basic health and hygiene but also the academic and professional opportunities for many individuals. Furthermore, the legislation suggests that awareness and education surrounding period poverty are vital steps towards achieving menstrual equity and ensuring that all individuals have access to essential hygiene products.
Summary
SJR121, introduced in the New Jersey legislature, establishes the last full week of May as 'Period Poverty Awareness Week.' This initiative aims to increase public awareness regarding period poverty, which is defined as inadequate access to menstrual hygiene products and education, as well as clean toilets and handwashing facilities. The legislation highlights the financial burden faced by menstruators, noting that the average person spends nearly $2,000 over their lifetime on menstrual hygiene products. Moreover, it emphasizes the challenge posed by the 'tampon tax' in 30 states, including New Jersey, which complicates affordability for low-income individuals.
Contention
A critical aspect of SJR121 is the acknowledgment of the challenges faced by vulnerable communities, including homeless individuals, incarcerated persons, and transgender individuals. These groups often lack access to menstrual hygiene supplies, which can lead to negative health outcomes, including infections. The resolution also notes the inadequacies in federal support, as existing safety-net programs, such as SNAP and Medicaid, do not cover menstrual products. This suggests that while the state level may commit to awareness efforts, federal action is still needed to address these disparities on a broader scale.