New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S2685

Introduced
1/13/26  

Caption

Requires school districts to provide instruction on menstrual health and hygiene as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

Impact

The implementation of S2685 is expected to significantly enhance awareness and understanding of menstrual health among students. By integrating this education into the existing health and physical education curriculum, the bill aims to address gaps in menstrual health education. It also seeks to empower students with knowledge, ultimately aiming to reduce the stigma associated with menstruation and improve overall public health outcomes. Additionally, the bill's provision for notifying parents and guardians ensures transparency and involvement in the educational process.

Summary

Senate Bill S2685 requires New Jersey school districts to provide education on menstrual health and hygiene for students in grades four through 12. The instruction is mandated to be age-appropriate and aligns with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education. The curriculum will cover critical topics such as proper use of menstrual hygiene products, symptoms and long-term effects of menstrual disorders, and implications associated with period poverty.

Contention

While the bill is generally well-received, it may face some contention regarding age appropriateness and the inclusion of specific health topics. Critics may argue that some parents could be uncomfortable with discussions about menstrual health being introduced at certain educational stages. Others may express concerns about the adequacy of resources and training for educators to effectively deliver this sensitive content. However, proponents assert that informed education is crucial for fostering a healthy understanding of menstruation and menstrual health.

Companion Bills

NJ A1981

Carry Over Requires school districts to provide instruction on menstrual health and hygiene as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NJ S2902

Carry Over Requires school districts to provide instruction on menstrual health and hygiene as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NJ A2183

Same As Requires school districts to provide instruction on menstrual health and hygiene as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

Similar Bills

NJ A2183

Requires school districts to provide instruction on menstrual health and hygiene as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NJ A2184

Permits students experiencing menstrual disorder to attend school remotely.

NJ A4477

Requires school districts to incorporate age-appropriate instruction on menstrual toxic shock syndrome and requires installation of signage in certain women's rooms to enhance public awareness of menstrual toxic shock syndrome.

NJ S2504

Requires school districts to incorporate age-appropriate instruction on menstrual toxic shock syndrome and requires installation of signage in certain women's rooms to enhance public awareness of menstrual toxic shock syndrome.

HI SR82

Urging The Department Of Education To Strengthen Menstrual Health Education Initiatives And To Adopt A Comprehensive Menstrual Cycle Curriculum.

HI SCR78

Urging The Department Of Education To Strengthen Menstrual Health Education Initiatives And To Adopt A Comprehensive Menstrual Cycle Curriculum.

HI HR110

Urging The Department Of Education To Strengthen Menstrual Health Education Initiatives And To Adopt A Comprehensive Menstrual Cycle Curriculum.

HI HCR118

Urging The Department Of Education To Strengthen Menstrual Health Education Initiatives And To Adopt A Comprehensive Menstrual Cycle Curriculum.