Menstrual products in schools law goes into effect January 1

With the start of the new year many new laws will be going into effect thanks to the 2023 legislative sessions. Previously we’ve highlighted the renters rights, minimum wage, and sick time laws but one under the radar law will also start on January 1. 

As part of the most recent education bill signed off by Governor Tim Walz back in June all Minnesota public and charter schools will be required to supply menstrual products at no cost to the student. The law says “ products must be available to all menstruating students” in grades four through 12”, and that “Each school district must develop a plan to stock pads and tampons in bathrooms “regularly used” by female and male students.” 

The bill did receive pushback from Minnesota Republican lawmakers who supported the bill but wanted the language changed to only supply menstrual products to female students in 4th through 12th grade but their pleas were unsuccessful. 

Schools will receive approximately $2.00 per student from the state to pay for the products. Items supplied by schools will include pads and tampons.