Maryland Delegate Kathy Szeliga is calling out state Democrats for backing a bill that would stock tampons in men’s bathrooms in state-owned buildings. Szeliga argued that the proposal, known as HB 941, is emblematic of the misplaced priorities currently found in Annapolis. The Republican lawmaker questioned the language of the bill during a House floor session, specifically targeting the requirement for "appropriately sized tampons" to be placed in all public restrooms.
"What are appropriately sized tampons?" Szeliga asked, drawing laughter from members of the House. "I've never heard of such a thing. What do you consider appropriate?" In response, Democratic Delegate Ken Kerr stated the language simply meant that products would be offered without a specific size requirement. Szeliga fired back, suggesting that if that were the case, the bill should not include confusing language regarding sizing.
The impact of the bill could extend to major professional sports facilities, including M&T Bank Stadium and Camden Yards. Because these venues are owned by the Maryland Stadium Authority, they would qualify as state-owned public buildings under the current proposal. Kerr confirmed that if the stadiums are considered state buildings, the mandate would apply to both the Ravens and Orioles facilities.
Szeliga pointed out that the fiscal note for the bill is currently listed as undetermined due to the vast number of state-owned buildings. However, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources has already projected upfront costs of approximately $400,000 for its facilities alone. Szeliga lamented that taxpayers are being asked to foot the bill for these administrative costs while the state struggles with a massive budget deficit.
This latest proposal follows previous attempts by Maryland Democrats to mandate feminine hygiene products at colleges and universities. Szeliga questioned whether this push was coming from an out-of-state national movement rather than addressing the actual needs of Marylanders. "There seems to be an obsession with feminine hygiene products in Maryland, in Annapolis, in the legislature," she told Fox News Digital.
As the state grapples with rising electricity bills and out-of-control spending, Szeliga argued that lawmakers should focus on real problems. She described the bill as the kind of nonsense seen in states where radical majorities have run out of productive ideas. The legislation, sponsored by more than ten Democratic delegates, has yet to pass either chamber as the debate over state spending continues.