Period PROUD Act (2025)

Summary#

The Period PROUD (Providing Resources for Our Underserved and Disadvantaged) Act of 2025 provides targeted funding through the Social Services Block Grant (SSBG) program so States and eligible entities can increase availability of menstrual products for people with limited access. The law deems SSBG funding levels and directs that $200,000,000 (reduced by reserved amounts) be obligated each year for the program. It also authorizes appropriations of $200,000,000 per fiscal year for 2026–2029 to carry out the section, with small reservations for technical assistance and a 2026 evaluation. Eligible recipients include States, local governments, Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and nonprofits with experience distributing basic needs items. Funds may be used to buy and distribute menstrual cups, discs, underwear, pads, and tampons; conduct outreach; integrate distribution with other basic-needs programs; provide training or technical assistance; and cover administrative costs (capped at 9%). Funds must supplement, not supplant, other funding. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) must issue guidance within 180 days and complete an evaluation of the program by December 30, 2031, report findings to relevant Congressional committees by March 31, 2032, and publish results by April 30, 2032. The bill also authorizes up to $6,000,000 for administration for fiscal years 2026–2029 and exempts funds from sequestration.

What it means for you#

• If you are a low-income person who menstruates: more free menstrual products and outreach may become available through community programs, schools, clinics, and local partners funded by your State. Distribution locations are not limited by the Secretary. Benefits received through this program are ignored for determining eligibility or benefit amounts under other Federal needs-based programs.
• If you run or work for an eligible nonprofit, tribal, or government program: you may apply for SSBG funds to buy and distribute menstrual products, integrate services with other programs, and provide training. You must follow reporting and use rules and may spend no more than 9% of grant funds on administrative costs.
• If you are a State agency: you will get guidance from HHS and must consult stakeholders when distributing funds to eligible entities. A federal evaluation and reporting schedule will follow.

Expenses#

• The bill directs that $200,000,000 (adjusted by reserved amounts) be obligated by States each year as described for fiscal years 2025–2028 under the SSBG structure.
• It appropriates $200,000,000 for each fiscal year 2026–2029 to carry out the section.
• The Secretary may reserve up to 2% of annual appropriations for technical assistance and up to $2,000,000 in fiscal year 2026 for evaluation activities.
• Up to $6,000,000 is authorized for administration for fiscal years 2026–2029.
• Funds for this program are exempt from sequestration.
• No publicly available information in the bill about broader fiscal impacts beyond these specified amounts.

Proponents' View#

The sponsors introduced the bill to provide targeted SSBG funding to increase the availability of menstrual products for people with limited access. The text frames the program as a way to decrease unmet need for menstrual products, support community distribution, and integrate such assistance with other basic-needs programs.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.