In the state of California, many incarcerated persons who menstruate are denied basic menstrual hygiene products, a situation that is both degrading and inhumane. This lack of access to sanitary products can lead to serious health complications such as bacterial infections, toxic shock syndrome, and other reproductive health issues. Those who already have their freedom stripped away should not also have their dignity stripped away.

AB 1810 Menstrual Equity for All is a legislative bill that focuses on bringing menstrual equity to all of California’s correctional facilities. Under this bill, facilities will be required to give people access to free and ready menstruation products.

California’s state law requires the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) facilities to provide menstrual products to incarcerated individuals upon request. Unfortunately, there have been numerous reports that corrections and rehabilitation facilities in California are being noncompliant or abusing power. To specify, the California Department of Justice indicates that out of 53 county jails, 25 jails were noncompliant. Some CDCR officers are utilizing menstrual products as tools for retaliation and coercion. At a nationwide level, many correction officers leverage menstrual products in exchange for sexual favors. This is inhumane as all people should have access to menstrual products for their health. In addition, those who do not have access to menstrual products are forced to make their own products, which leads to severe health risks such as infections and poor reproductive health outcomes.

The state has an obligation under international human rights law, including treaties like the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) which requires respect for dignity and humanity of all persons deprived of their liberty.

Supporting this bill will establish equity by allowing individuals in facilities to have access to menstrual products without the need to request them and will decrease poor public health outcomes, harassment, feelings of shame, trauma, and other negative experiences. Other states such as Delaware, Florida, Louisiana, and South Carolina have already established this guideline.

By signing this petition, you will help urge the relevant authorities to ensure menstrual equity across all correctional facilities within our state.