Q&A
Discussion on availability and distribution of menstrual products in jails
0:31:00
ยท
95 sec
Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about the availability and distribution of menstrual products in jails. James Conroy from the Department of Correction responds to her questions, addressing concerns about access and pricing.
- Confirmation that tampons and pads are provided for free
- Discussion on the process of requesting menstrual products
- Concerns raised about potential price gouging for those who choose to purchase products
Sandy Nurse
0:31:00
I just wanted to follow back up.
0:31:02
I know that, the the tampons and pads are free.
0:31:07
I think there was a period where that you weren't providing tampons, because of security concern.
0:31:13
So it's good to know that they're back.
0:31:15
I think, you know, the price gouging issue is important because it's my understanding that in order to get those menstrual products, you have to ask from it from a CEO.
0:31:25
Right?
0:31:26
Or are they just tell me on the record how somebody would ask for or get those products.
James Conroy
0:31:33
We can find out, but I they are regularly provided.
0:31:35
It's not it's not Or they provide it.
0:31:37
A process.
0:31:37
It's provided in a manner similar to our other, you know, items like clothing and and any hygiene products.
0:31:42
We have to give soap.
0:31:43
We have to give Right.
0:31:44
All those types of things.
0:31:45
So anyone, I think, at the intake process that would request or or express a need for that, it's it's part of the regular production.
0:31:52
But again, we will we will confirm the exact process.
0:31:54
I don't I don't think it's anything that's outside the ordinary provision of these types of items.
Sandy Nurse
0:32:00
Okay.
0:32:01
Yeah.
0:32:01
My understanding is you you have or it's been told to us that you have to ask for these things.
0:32:06
And so sometimes people, depending on the relationship with the CEO on the floor or what's going on in the housing unit, might wanna purchase instead of having to deal with that.
0:32:16
And so that's why we wanna make sure that those prices are what is comparable to the outside, for the loved ones.
James Conroy
0:32:23
We understand it.
0:32:24
I don't I I've not become familiar with any complaints of that nature, but, certainly, we'll find that out.
0:32:29
Okay.
0:32:30
And and if you're aware of any situation of the where that's happening specifically, please let us know, and we'll we'll certainly address that.