Maryland Bill Aims to Require Tampons in Men's and Women's Bathrooms

The legislation has sparked mixed reactions, with some questioning the necessity of providing tampons in men's restrooms.

Mar. 20, 2026 at 2:36am

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A bill in the Maryland legislature would mandate the availability of tampons and other feminine hygiene products in both men's and women's public restrooms. The proposal has received a mix of support and criticism, with some questioning the need for such a requirement in men's bathrooms. While many women have expressed approval, some members of the public and Republican lawmakers have voiced concerns over the potential costs and practicality of the measure.

Why it matters

The bill highlights the ongoing debate around access to menstrual products and efforts to destigmatize their use. Proponents argue it would provide greater accessibility and reduce embarrassment, while critics view it as an unnecessary government overreach. The legislation also touches on broader discussions around transgender rights and the use of public restrooms.

The details

The bill is sponsored by Democratic Delegate Terri Hill and would require the availability of tampons and other feminine hygiene products in both men's and women's bathrooms in public buildings across Maryland. Several state agencies have expressed concerns about the potential costs, with the Department of Natural Resources estimating nearly $400,000 in startup expenses. Critics, including the Republican Freedom Caucus, have dubbed the measure "Tampons for Timmy" and argued it is an unnecessary and expensive proposal.

  • The bill is currently up for a final vote in the Maryland House.

The players

Terri Hill

A Democratic Delegate from Howard County who sponsored the bill.

Kathy Szeliga

A Republican Delegate from Baltimore County who criticized the bill, suggesting it may be related to transgender bathroom access.

Republican Freedom Caucus

A group of Republican lawmakers who have opposed the bill and given it the nickname "Tampons for Timmy".

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What they’re saying

“Sometimes people get embarrassed to ask and tell their partner, 'Hey, I don't have any tampons, I ran out.' And you have a loving boyfriend or husband, 'Wait, there's some in the men's bathroom. I'll go get them,'”

— Marla Henderson, Anne Arundel County resident

“I don't see an issue with it. For me, it doesn't seem like an issue that is a problem,”

— Susan, Anne Arundel County resident

“There is some conversation about transgender women using men's bathrooms,”

— Kathy Szeliga, Republican Delegate, District 7A

“So, I've dubbed this bill, 'Tampons for Timmy,' because it explains what this bill does. This bill puts tampons in men's bathrooms across the state in Maryland — including the Ravens' stadium, Oriole Park, men's prisons. I just think it's very, very expensive — and most importantly, totally unnecessary.”

— Kathy Szeliga, Republican Delegate, District 7A

What’s next

The bill is currently up for a final vote in the Maryland House.

The takeaway

This legislation highlights the ongoing debate around access to menstrual products and efforts to destigmatize their use. While proponents argue it would improve accessibility and reduce embarrassment, critics view it as an unnecessary government overreach with potential cost implications. The bill also touches on broader discussions around transgender rights and the use of public restrooms.