Massachusetts
Proposal Summary
Require schools to permit students excused absences while experiencing symptoms of menstrual disorder.
Synopsis
Allow menstruating students in school to have excused absences when experiencing symptoms of their menstrual cycle. Allow for make-up assignments or extensions on in-class assignments and work.
Bill Content:
In colleges:
Ensure that DAS (Disability Access Services) and/or EOO (Equal Opportunity Office) of all colleges in MA makes having a diagnosed menstrual health condition (endometriosis, PCOS, etc.) a reason for accommodations.
Accommodations would include:
Additional “Excused Absences” to account for period cramps and pain for courses that require attendance as part of the overall grade.
Allowing opportunity for a make-up assignment if applicable
Notes and/or lecture material would be provided.
College courses should include in their syllabus that menstrual cycle conditions are acceptable reason for being absent from class, exams, and other important dates regarding the course.
Statement
Allow for excused absences and/or accommodations in schools for menstruating students who have to be absent due to period pain.
Implementation
To be announced.
Definitions
Excused absence: Absence that does not dock a student’s attendance grade, as they had a valid reason to not show up to class.
Class Attendance: Students marked “present” and given credit based on physically showing up to class.
Attendance Score: Based on student’s attendance to
Make-up assignment: If an assignment was completed in class, students are given that same or equivalent assignment to make up for it.
Extension: Additional time past the due date given to the menstruating student to complete the assignment they missed.