Albany, NY – Today, Assemblymember Rosenthal (D/WF-Manhattan), Chair of the Assembly Committee on Housing, passed critical legislation, A.1740, requiring New York to provide free menstrual products in state-owned or -leased buildings. The bill is supported by an array of advocates, including the National Council for Jewish Women, Planned Parenthood and NOW NYC.

“Access to menstrual products is a matter of equity,” said Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal (D/WF-Manhattan). “Every woman at some point in her life has searched a public bathroom in a panic, in hopes of finding a pad or tampon dispenser. However, that reality is simply unacceptable. Given that more than four million menstruators call New York home, it’s critical that women have access to the medical devices they require when visiting buildings that are owned or leased by the state.”

This legislation, sponsored by Michelle Hinchey in the State Senate, further builds on Assemblymember Rosenthal’s mission to reduce period poverty and menstrual inequity in New York State. She previously passed legislation eliminating the sales tax on menstrual products, as well as first-in-the-nation legislation requiring manufacturers to disclose the ingredients found in pads and tampons. She additionally passed legislation requiring that New York State schools, prisons and shelters provide free menstrual products. And just last year, Assemblymember Rosenthal passed legislation prohibiting the use of PFAS and other chemicals in pads and tampons.

“Let me be clear: menstrual equity is healthcare,” said Assemblymember Rosenthal. “As we navigate a world that is becoming more hostile to women, New York must continue to be a shining beacon for those whose very existence is under attack. Ensuring access to menstrual products is one small, yet critical step in seeing, understanding and responding to the very real needs of women across the state.”