As 2025 comes to a close, we’re celebrating this year’s U.S. period policy wins!
From new school requirements to expanding access in public spaces, it’s all thanks to the collective efforts of menstrual equity activists and policymakers nationwide.
Here’s to continuing to make the world better for people with periods!
Alabama HB152
On May 9, Governor Kay Ivey signed Alabama House Bill 152 into law, removing the sales tax on period products. The law took effect on September 1, 2025, and remains in place until August 31, 2028.
What sets this bill apart is its bipartisan support. Despite the Republican Party holding the governorship and majorities in both legislative chambers, lawmakers from both sides of the aisle came together to back a bill introduced by Rep. Neil Rafferty (D) and Sen. Arthur Orr (R).
Why are we taxing a product that 50% of the population has to use at a certain time in their lives? It’s common sense legislation and we finally got it done.
Senator Arthur Orr
Maryland HB205
Under House Bill 205, Maryland required all public middle and high schools to install free menstrual product dispensers in every women’s restroom by August 1, 2025.
The Maryland General Assembly allocated $453,645 in fiscal year 2026 to complete full restroom coverage. Dispensers must be stocked, free, and accessible—no nurse visit or quarters required.
Del. Kirill Reznik, bill sponsor
We don’t ask students to bring in their own toilet paper or hand soap… When we make students go to the nurse to get menstrual hygiene products, we cause them to miss more class time, create more work for nurses, and add to the stigma.
Missouri HB594
Period products are officially tax-free in Missouri, thanks to House Bill 594! The bill passed on May 7, 2025, making Missouri one of 32 states, plus D.C., that have removed the tampon tax.
In addition to period care, Missouri’s HB594 authorizes a state sales tax exemption for diapers and incontinence items. The law went into effect on August 28, 2025.
Ohio HB29
Ohio House Bill 29 is a bipartisan bill that would ensure free and reliable access to menstrual products for women incarcerated in state correctional facilities.
Reps. Latyna Humphrey and Marilyn John sponsored the bill, which the House unanimously passed in May and the Ohio Senate passed in November. The bill now heads to Gov. Mike DeWine’s desk to be signed into law.
During my tenure as Chair of the State and Local Government Committee in the last General Assembly, a group of women testified in support of this legislation, leaving the entire committee deeply moved. Their powerful message inspired me to join this effort with Rep. Humphrey, who has remained dedicated to bringing the issue forward. I hope that the passage of this bill shows the Ohio House’s commitment to supporting women across the state, and that we believe that no matter the circumstances, women deserve the dignity promoted through this legislation.
Rep. Marilyn John
