Topline
The Spanish government introduced women’s reproductive health legislation Tuesday that would do away with the requirement for parental consent for older teens to receive an abortions and permi paid sick time for menstrual pain.
The Minister of Equality, Irene Montero, participates in an appearance after the meeting of the … [+]
Key Facts
The bill includes a requirement for public facilities, like schools and prisons to offer free sanitary pads and a plan to make certain birth control free.
The bill promotes more accessible abortion care, the removal of a mantadory three-day reflection period for women seeking abortion and lifting the parental consent requirement for 16- and 17-year-olds.
Key Background
The proposed three days paid sick leave for menstrual pain would be covered by the state social security system, not employers. Montero pushed for stripping taxes from sanitary pads and tampons’ sale price, but that was nixed from the proposal.
Chief Critic
Cristina Antonanzas, deputy secretary of one of Spain’s largest trade unions, warned the legislation could indirectly impact women’s access to the labor market and urged caution, Sky News reported.
Further Reading
Spanish govt proposes wider abortion rights, menstrual leave (ABC News)
Factbox: Spain’s paid menstrual leave and abortion bill (Reuters)
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/kaliedrago/2022/05/17/spain-considering-bill-to-strengthen-abortion-rights-and-provide-menstrual-sick-leave/