In a major step forward for menstrual equity and public health, the New York State Senate has passed S03866-B / A01740A with bipartisan support. The bill would require free menstrual products in the bathrooms of state-owned or leased public buildings, including courthouses, office buildings, and more!
With support from lawmakers across party lines, the bill now heads to the Assembly floor, where it awaits a full vote.
If passed by the Assembly and signed into law by the Governor, the bill would amend the Public Buildings Law by adding a new §148, making menstrual hygiene products as accessible in public restrooms as toilet paper and soap.
What the Bill Would Do
This legislation mandates that menstrual products—including pads, tampons, and panty liners—be provided at no cost in:
- All Women’s and Gender-neutral restrooms located in state-owned or leased buildings that are open to the public
The affected facilities must be supervised by the Commissioner of General Services and deemed accessible to the public.
It also includes a strong accountability provision, requiring the Commissioner to submit a detailed report within two years of implementation that outlines:
- The number of affected facilities
- Implementation and renovation costs
- The quantity of products purchased annually
- Total state expenditures
Where the Bill Stands Now
- State Senate: The bill passed the Senate on June 13, 2025, with overwhelming support (58–1 vote, 4 excused).
- State Assembly: The bill has passed both the Governmental Operations and Ways & Means committees. As of mid-June, it has been placed on the Assembly floor calendar for a third reading, but a full vote has not yet occurred.
Why This Matters
As Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal’s memo explains:
“Menstruation is a basic, biological function… Many people have reported missing work or school because of unexpected menstruation or lack of access to products.”
New York already provides menstrual products in schools, correctional facilities, and shelters. This bill simply extends that logic to all public buildings. If soap and toilet paper are guaranteed, why not menstrual products?
Other cities—including Washington D.C. and Ann Arbor—have passed similar laws unanimously. New York has the chance to lead nationally by codifying period dignity into law.
What this bill would accomplish:
- Normalize menstruation in public policy
- Protect public health
- Advance gender equity
- Reduce period poverty
- Set a national example for civic inclusion
It’s Time for the Assembly to Act
The bill has:
- Passed the State Senate on June 13, 2025, by a vote of 58–1, with 4 excused
- Cleared all Assembly committees
- Been placed on the floor calendar for a vote
- Garnered support from both Democrats and Republicans
All that’s missing? A vote.
What’s Next—and How You Can Help
While Senate passage is a huge milestone, final approval depends on the Assembly. The bill is ready for a floor vote and could be called up before the legislative session ends.
You can support the bill by:
- Contacting your Assemblymember and urging a YES vote on A01740A
- Spreading awareness on social media with hashtags like #MenstrualEquityNY
- Supporting advocacy groups that champion period access and dignity
