Governor Murphy Signs Bill to Establish Menstrual Hygiene and Diaper Benefit Programs
Jun 28, 2024
TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy today signed A2027/S2330, establishing the State Work First New Jersey Menstrual Hygiene Benefit Program and the State Work First New Jersey Diaper Benefit Program. The bill appropriates $2.5 million from the General Fund to the Department of Human Services’ Division of Family Development for program administration.
Work First New Jersey (WFNJ) is the state’s cash assistance program, providing monthly cash, child care, job search and readiness, and short-term housing support for eligible residents. Under the new programs, eligible adults ages 18 through 50 participating in WFNJ can purchase menstrual hygiene products with a $14 monthly state benefit via their electronic benefits card. Similarly, individuals with dependents under 36 months old participating in WFNJ will receive a $30 monthly benefit for diaper products. These funds will be carried over to subsequent months if unused.
“Work First New Jersey provides essential assistance to residents facing financial hardship,” said Governor Murphy. “I am proud to extend this financial relief to cover costs of menstrual products and diapers.”
First Lady Tammy Murphy emphasized the necessity of these products: “The benefit included in this bill is a necessary step to ensuring cost is never a barrier to accessing these products.”
This legislation builds on previous efforts by the Murphy Administration to improve reproductive, maternal, and child health in New Jersey. For instance, P.L. 2023, c. 147 requires school districts to provide free menstrual products in public schools serving grades six through twelve.
“Ensuring all mothers across our state have the financial means to purchase these fundamental products is one of the most basic ways we can improve health,” said Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Authority President/CEO Lisa Asare.
Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman noted that traditionally such items have not been covered by assistance programs: “This law provides additional benefits for eligible households to help individuals afford these essential products.”
The primary sponsors for A2027/S2330 include Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz, Assemblywoman Shanique Speight, Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin, and Assemblyman Reginald Atkins.
Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz highlighted concerns about affordability: “Providers have shared stories with me of parents purchasing larger diapers for their infants with the intent of them lasting longer.”
Assemblywoman Shanique Speight remarked on easing financial burdens: “By signing A2027 into law, we address a significant need within our communities.”
Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin stressed that access should not be limited by income: “Access to menstrual hygiene products and diapers should not be a luxury afforded solely to those that can afford them.”
Assemblyman Reginald W. Atkins emphasized dignity: “No families in our state should ever have to worry about diapers for babies.”
To apply for Work First New Jersey and other assistance programs, visit NJHelps.gov.
