Public and charter schools in Delaware could be required to offer free feminine hygiene products to students by next school year.
House Majority Leader Valerie Longhurst and Sen. Elizabeth Lockman announced the proposal Thursday. The Democratic lawmakers plan to draft legislation that would require schools to provide pads and tampons to students in grades six through 12.
The bill would require that pads and tampons be provided in half of a public or charter school's bathrooms by the 2020-21 school year.
"We have the opportunity and responsibility to take a stand for period equity by making tampons and pads available to all students who need them. Improving access to safe, sanitary products will help students go about their daily lives with dignity, and without shame or worry," Longhurst said in a statement.
The bill is expected to be filed before the General Assembly returns to session in January.
The Legislature passed a bill last year requiring the Department of Correction and the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families to offer free feminine hygiene products.
