California

California Menstrual Equity in Private Institutions Act

Bill

Ensuring menstrual products are provided to all Californians in private institutions, which include private schools and businesses.

Synopsis

California is at the forefront of menstruation equity, with the California Menstrual Equity for All Act of 2021 (AB 367) ensuring that menstrual products are provided in all California public schools (Grades 3-12) and California Community Colleges. Moreover, public schools in California are also subject to this law, with menstrual products freely being given in these academic institutions. However, there is a gap in the legislation. Private institutions, like private schools and private businesses, are not subject to this act. As a result, individuals who menstruate in these institutions do not have cost-free menstrual products. This bill closes that gap. 

Specifications

• All California private schools must include menstrual products, both pads and tampons, in all female and gender-neutral restrooms.

• All California private businesses must include menstrual products, both pads and tampons, in all female and gender-neutral restrooms.

• All restroom users must be notified of their right to free menstrual products. This is done with a sign in the bathroom, near the products, informing them of their rights. 

• All menstrual products must be regularly restocked, with restroom users being given the contact information, both phone number and email address, of the individual responsible for restocking the bathrooms. 

  • This information will be presented on the sign informing users of their right to free menstrual products.

Funding

• Funding for this act will come from the General Fund located in California’s budget every fiscal year. This follows the precedent for funding set by California's Menstrual Equity Act of 2021 and California’s Budget Act of 2021. For the 2026 Fiscal Year, the California General Fund is set at $228.4 billion USD. (National Association of State Budget Officers).