California schools providing period products in boys’ bathrooms as early as 3rd grade
A California school district recently made headlines after announcing that all public schools containing grades 3 through 12 will now provide menstrual products in girls’ bathrooms, all-gender bathrooms, and at least one boys’ bathroom. This decision comes as a result of the “Menstrual Equality for All Act,” which was passed in October 2023 and requires public schools with grades 3 through 12 to offer pads and tampons free of cost.
Previously, California law only mandated this provision for schools teaching grades 6 through 12, but now it extends to include schools with grades 3 through 5. The Long Beach Unified School District sent an email to parents, guardians, and caregivers informing them of this change, stating that the system is committed to reducing barriers to learning and fostering a supportive environment for all students.
The email emphasized the importance of ensuring that any student who menstruates, including transgender boys and nonbinary students, can access necessary products with dignity and discretion. The district asked for patience as dispensers are being installed in restrooms across school sites and encouraged families to discuss the appropriate and safe use of period products with their children.
The “Menstrual Equality for All Act” requires schools to stock restrooms with an adequate supply of menstrual products in girls’ bathrooms, all-gender restrooms, and at least one boys’ restroom by the start of the 2024-2025 school year. The bill defines menstrual products as pads and tampons specifically for use during the menstrual cycle.
Overall, the state legislature’s intent with this act is to promote period equity and ensure adequate access to menstrual products for students in grades 3 through 5. This move towards menstrual equality in schools aims to create a healthier, more equitable, and inclusive learning environment for all students.
For more information on this topic and other news updates, stay tuned to the latest developments on the Fox News website.
