Gov. Tim Walz's law providing free menstrual products in Minnesota schools prompts Republican attacks while Democrats embrace the policy. (AP File)
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Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, the Democratic vice presidential candidate, has been dubbed “Tampon Tim” by Republican critics. The nickname stems from a law Walz signed last year requiring public schools to provide free menstrual products to students in grades 4-12.
The law, which took effect on Jan. 1, makes Minnesota one of 28 states with similar legislation. It enjoys broad popular support, with 30 states having eliminated sales tax on menstrual products.
However, Republicans are taking issue with the law’s inclusive language, which states products must be available “to all menstruating students in restrooms regularly used by students.” Some conservatives view this as a reason to attack Walz.
Karoline Leavitt, a Trump campaign spokesperson, stated on Fox News, “As a woman, I think there is no greater threat to our health than leaders who support gender-transition surgeries for young minors, who support putting tampons in men’s bathrooms in public schools.”
Related Story: Governor Walz’s Legacy: A Former Student Reflects on His Impactful Teaching
Democrats and LGBTQ Groups Embrace the Nickname
Despite the criticism, many Democrats and LGBTQ rights groups have embraced the nickname and praised Walz’s track record. Rep. Sandra Feist, the bill’s chief sponsor, defended it on X, saying, “This law exemplifies what we can accomplish when we listen to students to address their needs.”
Former presidential candidate Hillary Clinton tweeted, “Nice of the Trump camp to help publicize Gov. Tim Walz’s compassionate and common-sense policy. Let’s do this everywhere.”
How nice of the Trump camp to help publicize Gov. Tim Walz’s compassionate and common-sense policy of providing free menstrual products to students in Minnesota public schools! Let’s do this everywhere. pic.twitter.com/hk6v8cs8p4
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) August 7, 2024
The law aims to address period poverty, with studies showing that nearly 1 in 4 students have struggled to afford period products in the U.S. Experts argue that period poverty is not just an inconvenience but an issue of public health and dignity.
Read more at NPR
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