West Virginia

West Virginia Menstrual Equity and Access in Public Schools

Synopsis

This bill ensures that all West Virginia public schools provide free menstrual hygiene products and basic menstrual health education to students.

The goal is to reduce absenteeism, promote health equity, and normalize conversations about menstruation in a school setting.

Requirements

1. Product Access

   1. All public schools which have grades 6-12 must provide free menstrual products in at least one female and one gender-inclusive restroom per school.

2. Education

   1. Basic menstrual health education shall be incorporated into existing curriculum at the appropriate level.

   2. The curriculum should cover anatomy, menstrual hygiene, product use, and reducing menstruation stigma.

3. Privacy and Inclusion

   1. Distribution of menstrual products should protect student privacy and dignity, avoiding any form of discrimination.

4. Teacher Training and Involvement

   1. Teachers, school nurses, and counselors shall receive annual training on menstrual health awareness and how to support students who need menstrual products.

   2. The training shall be organized collaboratively with local health professionals or nonprofit organizations.

   3. Trained teachers are encouraged to integrate menstrual health topics into broader wellness and personal-hygiene lessons.

   4. Each school shall designate at least one coordinator responsible for: 

(1) overseeing product distribution; (2) coordinating teacher training; and (3) collecting data for reporting.

Statement

This proposal bill sees menstrual hygiene as essential to student health and academic participation.

Providing free menstrual products and basic menstrual education will improve attendance, confidence, and equality among Idaho students.