In a recent Northampton County council meeting, members discussed and ultimately passed an ordinance aimed at providing free menstrual products in public restrooms, marking a significant step towards addressing hygiene and dignity for menstruating individuals. The ordinance, sponsored by Commissioner Keegan, emphasizes that access to menstrual products is a fundamental right rather than a privilege.

Commissioner Keegan expressed pride in sponsoring the initiative, highlighting that Northampton County is following Montgomery County as one of the few counties in Pennsylvania to implement such a measure. The ordinance aims to ensure that menstrual products are available in all county restrooms, reinforcing the idea that these products should be as accessible as toilet paper.

The discussion also included an amendment proposed by another council member, which sought to clarify that menstrual products should be available in women's and gender-neutral restrooms. This amendment, however, was ultimately rejected by a narrow vote of 4 to 5. The council debated the necessity of including menstrual products in men's restrooms, with some members arguing that sanitary products should be available to all users, regardless of gender.

Despite some objections regarding the need for an ordinance versus a simpler resolution, the council concluded that formal legislation was necessary to ensure the implementation of the initiative and to allocate the required funding, estimated at $46,000. The ordinance passed with a vote of 5 to 4, reflecting a commitment to enhancing public health and equality in Northampton County.