Kunze Highlights Funding for No-Cost Feminine Hygiene Products in Schools

COLUMBUS—State Senator Stephanie Kunze (R-Dublin) joined Senate Minority Leader Nickie J. Antonio (D-Lakewood), Hamilton County Commissioner Denise Driehaus, and members of the Hamilton County Commission on Women and Girls for a press conference to discuss funding in the budget to provide no-cost period products in Ohio schools.
 
This appropriation was recently signed into law as part of House Bill 33, the state's main operating budget. Senator Kunze and Leader Antonio introduced the amendment that created the funds. The bill allocates $5 million in fiscal year 2024 for schools to provide free period products. Of the $5 million, $2 million will go toward installing product dispensers and $3 million will go toward purchasing the products.
 
“I am grateful our amendment to provide period products to our 6-12 grade students was included in the Senate version and final version of the state operating budget,” Kunze said. “We heard from advocates throughout the state that this will significantly aid in ensuring less truancy and stigma while promoting productivity and participation in the classroom.”
 
House Bill 33 requires all public and private schools that enroll girls in grades six through 12 to provide free period products for those students. The bill further permits schools to offer free period products to students below sixth grade if they so choose and determine where the products are to be kept in the school.
 
Watch the full press conference here.