Missouri House Bill HB3025

Missouri 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/26

Caption

Requires school districts to provide "period products" at no cost in charter schools and public middle and high schools

Impact

The implementation of HB3025 is slated to begin on July 1, 2027, which allows time for schools and districts to prepare for this mandate. The financial responsibility for providing these period products will fall upon the state, funded through appropriations made specifically for this purpose to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. By ensuring no cost to students, the bill aims to alleviate the financial barriers that can prevent students from accessing necessary menstrual hygiene products, promoting better health and school attendance.

Summary

House Bill 3025, introduced by Representative Rush, aims to require food products related to menstruation—specifically tampons and sanitary napkins—to be made available at no cost in charter schools and public middle and high schools across Missouri. This bill specifies that all charter schools and relevant school districts must provide these products in the restrooms of their facilities, ensuring that students who may need them can access them easily without financial burden. This change is intended to address the health and hygiene needs of students, particularly in the context of menstrual health management.

Contention

While HB3025 generally aims for improved access to menstrual products, discussions surrounding the bill have revealed some contention. On one side, proponents argue that providing free period products is essential for ensuring student health and attendance, particularly for those from low-income households who may struggle to afford these necessary items. However, there may be concerns regarding the logistics of implementation, including potential funding challenges and how the distribution of these products will be managed in schools. Critics could argue about the use of state funds for the program and whether this initiative overshadows other pressing school needs.