§ 5120.631 — State correctional institution feminine hygiene products

Ohio § 5120.631

• Jurisdiction: Ohio
• Title 51: Public Welfare
• Ch. 5120: Department of Rehabilitation and Correction

Text

(A) As used in this section:

(1) "Emergency" has the same meaning as in section341.261of the Revised Code.

(2) "Female" means of or denoting the sex that can bear offspring or produce eggs and has XX chromosomes, distinguished biologically by the production of gametes or ova that can be fertilized by male gametes.

(3) "Feminine hygiene products" means tampons and sanitary napkins that are used for the menstrual cycle.

(4) "State correctional institution" has the same meaning as in section2967.01of the Revised Code.

(B) Each state correctional institution housing female inmates shall provide inmates experiencing a menstrual cycle with an adequate supply based on individualized need, in perpetuity and without reprimand, of feminine hygiene products in a variety of sizes at no cost to the inmates.

(C) Each state correctional institution housing female inmates shall have a written policy and procedure in place that does all of the following:

(1) Protects inmates from the denial of feminine hygiene products based on race, sex, income status, degree of charge, disability status, or any other type of discriminatory identity;

(2) Establishes proper methods of storing, administering, and disposing of feminine hygiene products;

(3) Establishes sanitary and safe procedures for hand washing and cleaning of surfaces between restrooms and the designated area for disposal bins.

(D) Each state correctional institution housing female inmates shall provide a separate disposal container with a lid in a safe, designated area for use by inmates experiencing a menstrual cycle within the institution to dispose of used, soiled, or damaged feminine hygiene products.

(E) Except when the state correctional institution is experiencing an emergency, no state correctional institution housing female inmates shall deny inmates access to feminine hygiene products.

(F) Except when the state correctional institution is experiencing an emergency, each state correctional institution housing female inmates shall provide inmates experiencing menstruation a minimum of one shower per day with access to hot water for washing, regardless of whether the inmates are separated from the general population for disciplinary status.

Last updated January 9, 2026 at 9:03 AM

Legislative History

Effective: March 20, 2026 | Latest Legislation: House Bill 29 - 136th General Assembly