Free menstrual supplies at school are required by Virginia law. Compliance can be a challenge.

A 2020 law requires schools across Virginia to offer menstrual products such as pads and tampons to students for free. 

But it’s an unfunded mandate, leaving schools to figure out how to pay for supplies. 

That’s something Del. Holly Seibold, D-Fairfax, wants to change.

Before she ran for office, Seibold advocated for access to menstrual products and founded Bringing Resources and Aid to Women’s Shelters, a nonprofit that provides menstrual products, undergarments and hygiene items to shelters, schools and community pantries. 

Seibold has heard from constituents that the cost of purchasing supplies has prevented some schools from complying with the law, Dante Aralihalli, an aide for Seibold, said Thursday. She plans to seek funding during the upcoming legislative session for menstrual supplies in schools, though it’s too early for a concrete plan, Aralihalli said.

The law recently got a moment in the spotlight in Lynchburg.