It’s going to be easier for people to get the menstrual products they need in Santa Clara County, after supervisors unanimously approved a plan to stock bathrooms in all county facilities with free period products.
Bathrooms of all genders at county facilities will now carry free menstrual products, "just as there are free paper towels and toilet paper," said Supervisor Cindy Chavez in a statement.
"Hygiene products, including menstrual products are a necessity. Much like soap and toilet paper, if we did not have those readily and freely available we would be facing serious health consequences. There shouldn't be any shame or stigma attached to menstruating or period products. It's a natural bodily function," said Chavez, who proposed the plan.
More than 63,000 people in the county are suffering from “period poverty,” meaning they cannot afford necessary menstrual products.
Supervisors have also approved $1 million in funding to provide period products to disadvantaged communities during the pandemic back in December.
The board also voted to support a state law by Assembly member Cristina Garcia that would provide free menstrual products in public schools, community colleges, state college campuses and state and local municipal buildings.