The Council members who supported this initiative were Kelly Keegan, Lori Vargo Heffner, Ron Heckman, Jeff Warren and Ken Kraft. Opposed were John Brown, John Goffredo, Tom Giovanni and Jeff Corpora.
According to UNwomen.org, 1 of 4 teens and 1 of 3 adults struggle to afford menstrual products, especially among those of color or who are economically disadvantaged. This has been called "period poverty" and was the subject of an op-ed by Council members Jeff Warren and Kelly Keegan in May. In adopting this ordinance, Northampton County is following the lead of Montgomery County, which adopted a similar measure a few weeks ago.
Throughout the nation, 30 states have eliminated sales tax on menstrual products, and 28 states are committed to providing menstrual products at schools. These include Republican strongholds like Utah.
At last week's meeting, Keegan made no mention of the simple fact that menstrual products are beyond the financial reach of some people. She instead argued that, like toilet paper, menstrual products should be available for anyone who menstruates as a "matter of dignity" because "menstruation is not a choice." Echoing Keegan, Jeff Warren asked, "Why shouldn't menstrual products be available to women if toilet paper is available to men?"
Administration officials told Council member Ron Heckman that it will cost the county $28,415. It is estimated that products would cost an additional $16,000 a year. He wondered whether there should be a small fee. $28,415. "Without a nominal charge, I'm concerned that someone could come in ... that someone could empty the machine."
Council member John Goffredo suggested an amendment to clarify the ordinance to make clear that free menstrual products would be available only in women's and gender-neutral restrooms since that's how the ordinance is being interpreted by the administration. That amendment failed in a 5-4 vote, with Kelly Keegan, Lori Vargo Heffner, Ron Heckman, Jeff Warren and Ken Kraft opposed.
John Brown then questioned why an ordinance, a county law, is necessary. He suggested a resolution would be preferable. But as Council President Lori Vargo Heffner observed, a resolution is not binding on the county or a subsequent Council. An ordinance must be followed by the Executive. Lamont McClure said he would abide by a resolution but is not bound to do so.
