Scarsdale Sisters Inspire New Law Signed by the Governor

Amy Paulin with Katherine and Elizabeth SanchezAssemblymember Amy Paulin (D-Westchester) announced that Governor Hochul has signed into law the bill she authored (Ch. 227 of 2024) which addresses period poverty by requiring public colleges and universities to provide free menstrual products in their restrooms.

Two sisters and Scarsdale High School students, Katherine and Elizabeth Sanchez, while touring colleges, saw a disparity in the availability of free menstrual products and approached Paulin to author a law. They noted that due to the cost, women may go without changing for long lengths of time which can lead to health risks. They met with Paulin in her home in Scarsdale, asking her to propose the bill, and continually followed up on its progress. Most recently, after the bill passed in the Assembly and Senate, they wrote a strong advocacy letter to Governor Hochul urging her to sign the bill.

“When we first began this journey, Elizabeth and I turned to Assemblywoman Paulin, a crusader for women’s rights,” said Katherine Sanchez. “Her support of this bill from day one was invaluable, and I am thrilled to see these much-needed products made available to any woman who may need them. One state down, many more to go.”

Katherine’s sister and partner in advocacy Elizabeth, is also proud of the bill’s passage. “As a rising senior in high school, I visited many colleges and universities and was shocked to see the inequality, in terms of availability, of these products,” said Elizabeth Sanchez. “My sister and I knew that we needed to act and make a change. To have these free products in all New York State colleges and universities is a triumph for women’s rights and socioeconomic equity. Katherine and I are proud lifelong New Yorkers and are forever thankful to Assemblywoman Paulin, State Senator Hinchey, and Governor Hochul for signing this important bill into law.”

“It was wonderful for me to meet with Katherine and Elizabeth, and I appreciate their initiative and advocacy for this important bill,” said Paulin. “The stress that comes from being unprepared at school with no menstrual products at one’s disposal is real, and can lead to a disruption of school and learning. These products have always been relatively expensive, and there are women who cannot afford to purchase an endless supply for changing, which can lead to health issues. There is a serious need for women to have access to these necessary items at no cost.”

“One of the most important ways that I can serve my constituents is by passing impactful bills,” continued Paulin. “This bill underscores my commitment to improving the health outcomes and lives of women. And working with amazing young residents like Katherine and Elizabeth gives me great hope for the future of New York!”

This bill was passed in the New York State Senate by Senator Michelle Hinchey.