FAQs - Menstrual Health | Products

Q: What funding will be available to public schools to support this new law?
A: The law did not include funding. Schools are responsible for the cost of products. Products must be provided at no cost to the students.

Q: Does the public health law affect non-public schools?
A: The law was amended, and as of July 1st, 2024, All New York State public and nonpublic schools that serve students in any grade from six to twelve will be required to provide feminine hygiene products to students in school restrooms at no cost. 

Q: Where should the menstrual products be placed?
A: Menstrual products must be kept in restrooms used by students, including gender-neutral bathrooms. Locating the products only in the health office is not acceptable.

Q: How should menstrual products be dispensed?
A: The products may be placed in dispensing machines or in a box or basket as long as they can be accessed for free.

Q: In a K-6 building, where do products need to be kept?
A: Wherever a 6th grader can access. If the 6th graders use a designated restroom, then that’s where they need to be kept. If K-6 all use general restrooms, then all general restrooms need to have products available in them. 

Q: What type of menstrual products should be purchased?
A: It is a local decision on the product type purchased. It is recommended that generic products are provided that are both less expensive and less likely to be taken unless a student needs to use one.