North Carolina’s Menstrual Equity For All Act
What it is and why it matters
In North Carolina periods are still regarded as a luxury. But why? Women in NC are still subject to “the pink tax” and cost-free menstrual products are still available in schools. Luckily, North Carolina legislators like Representative Julie Von Haefen are taking a stand for women’s rights through the Menstrual Equity for All Act.
The Menstrual Equity for All Act can be broken down into two simple parts: the elimination of the pink tax and an increase in funding for schools. The first part tackles the pink tax. “The pink tax” refers to a markup on goods that are advertised to women, this is most present in menstrual products. Other common examples of subjects of the pink tax include women’s razors, deodorants, clothes, and even biking helmets. Women lose approximately $200,000 in their lifetime to the pink tax. The Menstrual Equity for All Act would not only ensure that women in NC would no longer be subject to this invisible fine, but, as Representative Von Haefen has stated, the elimination of the pink tax would encourage public acknowledgement that periods are a medical issue.
The second part of the act would raise funding for free menstrual product programs in schools. Last year, the Feminine Hygiene Products Grant Program provided a sizable amount of money for schools to use in order to implement free menstrual product programs. While this was a big step in the right direction, the program was not entirely successful as it experienced a large volume of applicants and could not accommodate as many schools as were in need.
“The Menstrual Equity for All Act would provide more funding for schools so that more students can feel supported in their education. ”
While the Menstrual Equity for All Act would be a great piece of legislation to support menstruators across North Carolina, it has not been enacted yet and its fate will rely on the dispersion NC’s budget this year. If you would like to support the Menstrual Equity for All Act, write to your local legislators promoting it. Another easy way to encourage its passing is by simply sharing your story about your experience with your period. By sharing our stories, we are reducing stigma and making progress towards a more accepting and equal North Carolina.
By: Farah Rosaleen