Scotland on Tuesday approved legislation that will make menstrual products free across the country for all who require them.
Why it matters: Scotland will be the first nation in the world to make period products fully free and available. The effort is meant to eradicate "period poverty," in which people go without menstrual products due to financial limitations.
- Scotland made such hygiene products free for students at schools and universities two years ago.
- The nation's government estimates the program will cost £24 million annually — which equates to about $32 million.
Scotland's first minister Nicola Sturgeon tweeted on Tuesday:
Proud to vote for this groundbreaking legislation, making Scotland the first country in the world to provide free period products for all who need them. An important policy for women and girls. Well done to @MonicaLennon7 @ClydesdAileen and all who worked to make it happen https://t.co/4lckZ4ZYIY
— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) November 24, 2020
