On February 24th, Scotland became the first country to make menstruation products completely free. Tampons and pads were already free in schools and colleges before the bill passed in an effort to erase the stigma around periods.

   The act was called the Period Products (Free Provision) Scotland Bill. The bill was proposed on April 23rd, 2019 by Monica Lennon, a member of the Scottish Parliament. During the debate on the 24th, Lennon said, “Women and girls are too often left behind in the political process. This is a chance to put them first and do something that is truly groundbreaking on gender equality.”

   The bill passed with 112 votes for it, zero against it, and one abstention. According to a 2017 study by Plan International UK, ten percent of young women could not afford menstruation products, and 12 percent had to use alternative products because they were unable to purchase menstruation products.

   Many students at LCN think that Scotland’s decision is a good development. Senior Ursula Corrado thinks, “It’s good because there are some women who are unable to afford hygiene products.” Senior Emina Korajac agrees, saying, “It’s a step in the right direction.”

   According to the Washington Post, the government will be paying $31.2 million per year towards tampons and pads after this bill. It is currently in the second stage of being passed as amendments are proposed. After that, the bill will be given a final consideration and enacted.