H.R.922 - Period PROUD (Providing Resources for Our Underserved and Disadvantaged) Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.922, the Period PROUD Act of 2025, aims to increase the availability of menstrual products for individuals with limited access by providing targeted funding through the Social Services Block Grant program. The bill allocates an additional $200 million annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2029 to states and eligible entities for this purpose. It also includes provisions for technical assistance, training, and program evaluation.
The funding will be distributed to eligible entities, including state and local governmental entities, Indian tribes, and certain non-profit organizations, to facilitate the distribution of free menstrual products and improve access for low-income individuals. The Act also mandates annual reports and an evaluation of the program's effectiveness.
This bill seeks to address a specific need among low-income individuals and families, potentially improving their health and well-being by ensuring access to essential menstrual products.
Expected Effects
The Period PROUD Act, if enacted, would lead to increased funding for menstrual products for low-income individuals through the Social Services Block Grant program. This would likely result in greater availability of these products in communities and improved access for those who struggle to afford them.
States and eligible entities would receive funds to distribute menstrual products, conduct outreach, and integrate these efforts with other assistance programs. The program's effectiveness would be evaluated, and guidance would be issued to ensure proper implementation.
Ultimately, the Act aims to reduce the unmet need for menstrual products and mitigate potential health risks associated with limited access.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to menstrual products for low-income individuals.
- Improved health and hygiene for menstruating individuals.
- Support for community organizations involved in basic needs distribution.
- Integration of menstrual product distribution with other social service programs.
- Potential reduction in health risks associated with lack of access to menstrual products.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased government spending and potential for budget deficits.
- Administrative costs associated with managing the grant program.
- Potential for misuse or inefficient allocation of funds.
- Possible dependence on government assistance for menstrual products.
- Limited scope of the program, addressing only one aspect of poverty.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Period PROUD Act appears to align with the general welfare clause of the US Constitution, as it aims to improve the health and well-being of low-income individuals by providing access to essential menstrual products. The Constitution's preamble states the goal to "promote the general Welfare".
Congress has the power to tax and spend for the general welfare, as outlined in Article I, Section 8. The Act's allocation of funds through the Social Services Block Grant program falls under this power.
However, the Act does not directly implicate any specific constitutional rights or limitations. Its focus is on providing resources to address a specific social need, and it does not appear to infringe upon individual liberties or state powers.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).