Delaware lawmakers propose free pads and tampons in schools

Posted: Oct 19, 2019 / 12:06 PM EDT / Updated: Oct 19, 2019 / 12:06 PM EDT

FILE – In this June 22, 2016 file photo, Tammy Compton restocks tampons at Compton’s Market, in Sacramento, Calif. Gov. Jerry Brown on Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2016 rejected an attempt to waive taxes on tampons and other feminine hygiene products along with other proposed tax breaks, saying lawmakers should propose such ideas as part of the annual state budget process rather than as one-off exceptions. (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli,File)

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) – Public and charter schools in Delaware could be required to offer free feminine hygiene products to students by next school year.

Citing a press release, news outlets report House Majority Leader Valerie Longhurst and Sen. Elizabeth Lockman announced the proposal Thursday.

The Democratic lawmakers plan to draft legislation that would require schools to provide pads and tampons to students in grades six through 12. The bill is expected to be filed before the General Assembly returns to session in January.

The Legislature passed a bill last year requiring the Department of Correction and the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families to offer free feminine hygiene products.