HI SR23

Urges the University of Hawaii System to provide menstrual products at no cost to students across all university, community college, and education center campuses as part of a public health and education equity strategy.

Requires each UH System chancellor to consult with their campus student council beginning fall semester 2023 to determine the type and amount of menstrual products to be provided.

Requests the University of Hawaii System submit a report to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2024 Regular Session on the status of providing free menstrual products across all campuses.

Cites 2021 research showing eighty percent of menstruating students in Hawaii experience difficulty accessing menstrual products, with forty-two percent missing class due to lack of access and some missing up to ten days per academic year.

References successful pilot programs at Kapiolani Community College and University of Hawaii at Hilo that have already implemented free menstrual product distribution in campus restrooms.