PENNSYLVANIA — On Wednesday, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed legislation (H.B. 850) that would provide a waiver for people who menstruate and utilize SNAP or WIC to purchase menstrual hygiene products and diapers using those programs.
The bill’s author, state Rep. Darisha Parker, said that she is proud to be an ally for women and people who menstruate across the commonwealth.
It would also create a grant program that would provide eligible public schools with funding to acquire and distribute menstrual hygiene products.
“This legislation would remove barriers for those who menstruate and utilize these programs. Period poverty disproportionately affects communities of color, so this bill would address that systemic problem,” Parker said. “We need to provide dignity amongst women and girls. It’s sad many have to deal with scarcity of feminine products and diapers.”
Parker also noted the partnership of Lynette Medley, founder and C.E.O of No More Secrets, who was instrumental in the legislation.
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