New jersey seeks state contract for menstruation products

Trenton, NJ – Assemblywoman Lisa Swain (District 38) has introduced Bill A2318, co-sponsored by Assemblywoman Speight, Murphy, Assemblyman Stanley, and Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson. The bill establishes requirements for the State of New Jersey to enter into contracts for the purchase of menstrual products, aiming to maximize the State’s bargaining power and reduce costs.

The bill mandates that the Director of the Division of Purchase and Property in the Department of the Treasury review all State purchasing arrangements, contracts, and initiatives. The director will consider options to leverage the State’s bargaining power regarding menstrual products and may recommend necessary statutory, administrative, or executive actions to reduce purchasing costs for State programs and entities.

The director is required to advertise for and award contracts for the purchase of menstrual products upon request from any state department, division, office, or agency. These contracts will be accessible to all executive branch entities and cooperative purchasing participants.

The bill defines “menstrual products” as items designed specifically for the absorption or containment of menstrual flow, including pads, pantiliners, tampons, and menstrual cups.

Additionally, the bill allows non-profit entities to purchase menstrual products under State contracts at the director’s discretion, subject to rules and limitations established to protect the State’s purchasing interests. Non-profit entities must report their expenditures on such contracts as required by the director.

The director is also authorized to adopt rules and regulations necessary for the implementation of this act, which takes effect immediately.

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