Menstrual Equity Law

In 2022, the Connecticut General Assembly passed new legislation requiring public schools to supply a range of menstrual products in school restrooms. The intention of the law is to address period poverty, meaning the struggle to purchase period products due to lack of income. The law encompasses elementary, middle, and high schools, with the goal of promoting period equity and dignity for all menstruating students, so that they can fully participate in school life without shame or stigma.

The purpose of this guidance, issued by the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) in accordance with the menstrual equity legislation, is to support schools, students, and communities in implementing the requirements of the law, with recommendations to ensure that no student experiences stigma or shame in accessing menstrual products regardless of gender, ability, language, or socioeconomic status.

The guidance includes additional materials to support implementation at the school level including an FAQ for school staff, sample flyers in English and Spanish at both lower and middle school reading levels, and a sample educational poster for high schools to support implementation and awareness raising about the menstrual equity initiative.

Download the Menstrual Equity Guidance Full Materials

Contact EndPeriodPoverty@ct.gov with any questions.