Bill would require regular restocking of menstrual dispensers in Maryland middle and high schools

Rasika Covington, speaking as a health policy intern for Senator Heldman, told the committee that a 2021 law required menstrual product dispensers in middle and high schools but did not explicitly require they be restocked. "Menstrual products are not luxuries, they are basic health necessities," she said, arguing empty dispensers undermine attendance and dignity for some students.

Vida Pavala, a junior and student legislative liaison from Crofton High School, described hearing from peers who encounter empty dispensers and urged lawmakers to make restocking reliable statewide. She and the sponsor emphasized the bill is narrow: it clarifies implementation and does not create a new program or add state fiscal cost.

Committee members asked how to define “regularly.” Senator Kagan asked whether “regularly” meant once a week, once a month, or another schedule; Pavala said the group had not set a specific timeline but supported restocking when dispensers are empty and recommended a staff check system. Senator Simonaire asked whether districts had been contacted about resistance; the witness said they had not encountered active resistance but saw gaps in practice across the state.

What’s next: The sponsor asked for a favorable report. Committee discussion flagged the need to specify or clarify frequency and accountability mechanisms during later stages of the bill process.