Action | Amend current 6VAC15-40-770 to require that feminine hygiene items be provided to female inmates without charge |
Stage | Fast-Track |
Comment Period | Ended on 12/26/2018 |
I support the proposed changes in the regulation language. People should be allowed to choose the menstrual hygiene product that works best for them; letting a facility define and determine what will be considered and distributed as a menstrual hygiene product neglects the individual bodies and needs of menstrual product users. Additionally, the provision that products will be provided "without charge" is crucial. Having a period is not a choice. Those with already limited financial resources, like those incarcerated, should not be financially punished for biological functions. Should we charge an inmate for the use of toilet paper?
Regarding the striking of the word "reasonable" from the provision, this change is, again, necessary to recognize the individual needs of menstrual product users. Menstrual cycles, flows, and needs vary widely. It should never be up to another person to determine what is a "reasonable" request for menstrual products.