The Menstrual Equity for Haitian Migrants Act would provide free feminine care products to Haitian Migrants in New Jersey
Trenton, NJ – A proposal introduced in the New Jersey Assembly would establish a state-funded program to provide free menstrual hygiene products to Haitian migrants living in the state, in what supporters call a targeted effort to address period poverty among underserved communities.
Assembly Bill 4497, titled the “Menstrual Equity for Haitian Migrants Act,” directs the Department of Health to create a program that distributes menstrual products—such as sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups—at no cost to Haitian migrants who arrived in New Jersey at least two years prior to the law’s effective date.
Backed by Assemblywomen Shanique Speight, Shama Haider, and Shavonda Sumter, the bill outlines that the program would work through community-based, faith-based, and nonprofit organizations that specialize in serving Haitian populations, including community health centers and immigrant advocacy groups.
The legislation cites data showing that Haitian migrants make up about six percent of New Jersey’s immigrant population, or roughly 46,000 residents. It argues that period poverty—defined as a lack of access to menstrual hygiene products and related services—disproportionately affects this group due to economic hardship, cultural stigma, and logistical barriers.
Under the bill, the Department of Health would be responsible for purchasing the products, conducting outreach to inform eligible individuals, and filing annual reports with the Governor and Legislature on the program’s effectiveness. Funding would come from annual state budget appropriations, though the department would also be authorized to apply for federal or private grants.
The proposed law is part of a broader push by some state lawmakers to address menstrual equity as a public health and human dignity issue. If passed, the bill would take effect on the first day of the third month after enactment.
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Key Points
- Bill A4497 would provide free menstrual hygiene products to Haitian migrants living in New Jersey
- Program would be funded through state appropriations and managed by the Department of Health
- Community-based and nonprofit organizations would distribute the products and conduct outreach
New Jersey may soon become the first state to launch a publicly funded menstrual equity program focused on one immigrant community.