Harrisburg, Pennsylvania – The Pennsylvania Department of Health revealed that the state averaged nearly 133,000 births annually from 2018 to 2022. The estimated cost of providing essential kits for newborns adds up to just under $36 million each year. State Representative Kate Klunk of York brought attention to the issue, highlighting concerns about the bill not adequately addressing the needs of mothers who require assistance the most.
In a recent development, the state House advanced a crucial initiative championed by Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro to supply free period products in public schools. Shapiro emphasized the importance of ensuring that girls have access to necessary sanitation products for their well-being, allowing them to focus on their education without worry.
School nurse Karla Coffman from York Suburban High School shed light on the everyday challenges faced by students who lack proper period products or resort to using inadequate substitutes. Coffman stressed the significance of addressing this issue promptly, as using alternatives like toilet paper or paper towels can lead to unhygienic practices and potential health risks.
Despite efforts by Coffman and other educators to provide period products, the financial burden falls on individual school staff rather than being included in essential supplies. The state House approved a bill allocating $3 million for a program aimed at offering free period products in schools, emphasizing the importance of meeting basic needs for students’ well-being and education.
Speaker of the state House Joanna McClinton emphasized the normalcy of discussing periods and the importance of meeting the needs of students by ensuring they have access to essential products. However, the bill faced opposition from Republican representatives like Stephanie Borowicz, who expressed concerns about the broader implications of increasing government support for such initiatives.
The proposed bill now awaits consideration by the Republican-controlled state Senate, where discussions about new spending initiatives will take place. State Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman acknowledged the necessity for compromise in divided government, hinting at the possibility of reaching agreements on spending measures to address pressing issues affecting Pennsylvania residents.