Whereas the 2024 British Columbia Building Code contains updated accessibility features for universal washrooms and that they must contain full-sized adult changing tables; and no new updates were made to the provincial Building Code and Occupational Health and Safety Regulations to include accessibility features for free menstrual supplies or sanitary disposal bins for those who menstruate; And whereas equity-based policies around access to menstrual products as a health and human rights imperative will support inclusion, accessibility, mobility, reduce stigma, and promote gender equality for all people; And whereas in December 2023, the Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations were revised to include free menstrual products in all federally regulated workplace restrooms: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM call upon the Province of British Columbia to update the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, and the British Columbia Building Code to include provisions for sanitary disposal bins, and courtesy menstrual supplies as is currently required for toilet paper in restrooms outside the home, thus supporting accessibility and gender equity for people who menstruate.
