Period PROUD (Providing Resources for Our Underserved and Disadvantaged) Act of 2025

The Period PROUD (Providing Resources for Our Underserved and Disadvantaged) Act of 2025 seeks to address the unmet need for menstrual products among low-income individuals by enhancing the Social Services Block Grant (SSBG) program. It designates an additional $200,000,000 annually for fiscal years 2026 through 2029, specifically for increasing access to menstrual products. This funding is part of an overall increase to the SSBG program, which is deemed to be $1,900,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2028. States are required to distribute these funds to eligible entities, including governmental bodies, tribal organizations, and qualified nonprofit organizations, which have experience in basic needs distribution. Allowable uses of funds include the direct purchase and distribution of menstrual products, community outreach to facilitate participation in distribution programs, and improving overall access for low-income individuals. Funds can also be used to integrate these activities with other basic needs assistance programs such as TANF, CHIP, Medicaid, WIC, and home visiting services, with a limit of 9 percent for administrative costs. The bill also reserves a portion of the appropriated funds for technical assistance, training, and a comprehensive evaluation of the program's effectiveness. The Secretary of Health and Human Services is mandated to complete this evaluation by December 30, 2031, and report the findings to Congress by March 31, 2032. Importantly, any assistance received under this program will not affect a family's eligibility for other federal needs-based programs, and the funds are exempt from sequestration.