H.R.3644 - Menstrual Equity For All Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3644, the Menstrual Equity For All Act of 2025, aims to increase the availability and affordability of menstrual products for individuals with limited access. The bill mandates the provision of free menstrual products in various settings, including schools, higher education institutions, correctional facilities, homeless shelters, and federal buildings. It also seeks to cover menstrual products under Medicaid and addresses taxation issues related to these products.
Expected Effects
The Act's passage would lead to increased access to menstrual products for students, incarcerated individuals, homeless individuals, and employees. It would also require states to eliminate taxes on menstrual products. This could alleviate financial burdens and health risks associated with period poverty.
Potential Benefits
- Improved health and hygiene for individuals with limited access to menstrual products.
- Reduced financial strain on low-income individuals and families.
- Enhanced educational equity by ensuring students have access to necessary menstrual products.
- Increased dignity and well-being for incarcerated individuals and detainees.
- Greater workplace equity by providing free menstrual products for employees.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs for federal and state governments to provide free menstrual products.
- Potential administrative challenges in implementing and managing the distribution of menstrual products in various settings.
- Possible opposition from states regarding the mandate to eliminate taxes on menstrual products.
- Risk of fraud or misuse of funds allocated for menstrual product programs.
- Concerns about the quality and safety of menstrual products provided through government programs.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is complex. Congress has broad power to tax and spend for the general welfare (Article I, Section 8). However, the Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, which could be invoked to challenge mandates regarding state taxes or programs. The Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause could be argued to support the bill's aim of addressing gender-based disparities in access to essential products.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).