Year: 2012
Resolution Number: 24
Action Taken: Disapproved
Status:
Author(s): Dee Federico
Sponsor: Domenic R. Federico, MD
On behalf of: Kent County Delegation
Committee: A (Medical Care Delivery)
Resolved Section(s):
RESOLVED: That MSMS ask the Michigan Department of Human Services to reclassify tampons and sanitary napkins as medical goods versus paper products2, allowing low-income women to utilize food stamp/Bridge Card resources for the purchase of these necessary items.RATIONALE: While the Committee supported the concept of helping people in financial need receive necessary products, they determined that the resolution requests action that is outside of the scope of both the program and state’s authority. MSMS Legal Counsel provided the following observation: “The Bridge Card program is funded by the federal government, administered by the state, and the federal government sets the ground rules for what is and is not classified as a paper product which cannot be purchased under this program. The program is intended to provide for food only.”
RESOLVED: That MSMS ask the Michigan Department of Human Services to reclassify tampons and sanitary napkins as medical goods versus paper products2, allowing low-income women to utilize food stamp/Bridge Card resources for the purchase of these necessary items.RATIONALE: While the Committee supported the concept of helping people in financial need receive necessary products, they determined that the resolution requests action that is outside of the scope of both the program and state’s authority. MSMS Legal Counsel provided the following observation: “The Bridge Card program is funded by the federal government, administered by the state, and the federal government sets the ground rules for what is and is not classified as a paper product which cannot be purchased under this program. The program is intended to provide for food only.”
Fiscal Note: NULL
Resolution: View PDF for Reclassification of Feminine Products as Medical Needs