Governor Hochul signs new legislation: Inclusivity from healthcare to haircare

Governor Kathy Hochul signed the Health Equity and Opportunity legislative package Saturday, which further supports the State’s commitment to gender inclusivity and will provide necessary resources to New York’s youth.

Legislation in this package addresses a wide range of issues, which requires middle and high schools to provide free menstrual products in school bathrooms and requires cosmetologists to receive training on all hair types and patterns, including natural hair types throughout their education.

We know now more than ever before the positive impact inclusivity has on communities, and in New York, we’re taking the steps to ensure equity for all from healthcare to haircare,” Governor Hochul said. “From simply updating the way certain products are referred to, to expanding access to vital resources for those who may need them most, as time progresses, so should our laws.

Legislation S.5913A/A.113A requires menstrual products to be provided to students for free in private middle and high school student restrooms.

State Senator Iwen Chu said, “A stigma around menstruation and menstrual inequities continues to impact thousands of students in New York State. 25% of menstruating individuals do not have access to period products, which are a basic necessity that can be a burdensome expense for families. Without these products, students are likely to miss classes and school days. I’m proud to see my legislation signed by Governor Hochul so non-public school students have menstrual products accessible to them and strengthen our fight against period poverty. Menstruation is not a choice, but removing the barrier to product access is.”

Legislation S.1792/A4349 will commemorate March 8th as International Women’s Day. This day will recognize the adversity women have faced and celebrate the valiant fight for equality.

Assemblymember Karines Reyes said, “Legislation S.6528A/A.6927A will require New York State to require that education and testing for cosmetologists (including natural hair stylists) include education regarding the provision of services to individuals with all hair types and textures, including, but not limited to, various curl or wave patterns, hair strand thicknesses, and volumes of hair. This legislation will promote and establish an inclusive basic training for all licensed cosmetologists.

Legislation S.6528A/A.6927A will require New York State to require that education and testing for cosmetologists, including natural hair stylists, include education regarding the provision of services to individuals with all hair types and textures, including, but not limited to, various curl or wave patterns, hair strand thicknesses, and volumes of hair. This legislation will promote and establish inclusive basic training for all licensed cosmetologists.