Menstrual Health Awareness Day

Summary#

Bill 131 would make May 28 each year “Menstrual Health Day” in Ontario. It is a symbolic observance meant to raise awareness about menstrual health and access to menstrual products. The bill does not create programs, funding, duties, or penalties.

• Proclaims May 28 as Menstrual Health Day across Ontario.
• Starts when it receives Royal Assent.
• Does not make May 28 a statutory holiday.
• Does not require any actions by schools, employers, or municipalities.
• Aims to highlight access and affordability issues, especially in Northern and Indigenous communities (as stated in the preamble).

What it means for you#

• Residents

  • You may see public messages or community events about menstrual health on May 28.
  • Work, school, and services continue as normal. This is not a paid holiday.

• People who menstruate

  • No direct change to access, coverage, or cost of menstrual products.
  • The day could help increase awareness and reduce stigma.

• Schools, nonprofits, health providers, and municipalities

  • You may choose to host education or awareness activities.
  • There is no requirement to do anything.

• Employers and businesses

  • No new legal duties or costs.
  • You may choose to observe the day with voluntary activities.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

• The bill does not include funding or create new programs.
• Any costs would likely come from optional awareness activities by government or organizations.
• No new fees, fines, or required spending are created by the bill.

Proponents' View#

• The bill appears intended to raise awareness about the high cost and limited access to menstrual products, especially in Northern and Indigenous communities (as described in the preamble).
• A named day could help normalize menstruation and reduce stigma.
• A set date can focus education efforts and public discussion.
• Increased awareness could encourage voluntary action by schools, employers, and communities to improve access.

Opponents' View#

• One concern is that the bill is symbolic only and does not provide funding or direct help to improve access or lower prices.
• It is unclear how much real-world impact an awareness day will have without specific programs or responsibilities.
• The bill does not explain who, if anyone, should lead activities, which may limit consistency or effectiveness.
• There may be small administrative costs if public bodies choose to organize events, but the bill does not address this.