You may know that SNAP (food stamps) does not allow purchase of pads, tampons, or toilet paper, something that always surprises people. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are exclusively focused on edible products.

This limitation negatively impacts our Knox County friends and neighbors. Nearly 10% of our elderly live-in poverty. Their average monthly SNAP benefits are $112. They should be able to purchase toilet paper with SNAP if that is their greatest need.

A resolution has been introduced in the Maine state legislature that would allow pads, tampons, toilet paper and soap to be purchased with SNAP benefits. The resolution is addressed to the USDA Food and Nutrition Service which administers SNAP.

Maine’s SNAP enrollment hovers around 175,000. Many of these folks struggle with rent, utilities, and food. They also often wrestle with access to the most essential grooming products.

A local mom confessed that, with five menstruators in her household, she frequently makes difficult choices between period products and food. She should be able to purchase pads & tampons with SNAP. Being able to select and purchase the pads or tampons most appropriate for your needs, whether you are a 10-year-old new menstruator or a 54-year-old approaching menopause, is a right all menstruators should have.

Passing Resolution LR855 means the President, Maine’s congressional delegation and others in power will receive notification that Mainers are demanding changes which will allow essential grooming products purchasable with SNAP. New Jersey and Illinois have introduced similar resolutions. Other states are urged to join. 

You can advocate for Mainers and Americans struggling to afford pads, tampons, toilet paper and soap by contacting your local senator or representative requesting that they support LR855.

Sharon Hobson lives in Rockland