After unanimous legislature passage, the ban on PFAS and Toxics in Menstrual Products bill awaits the Governor’s signature

On March 26th, the PFAS and Toxics in Menstrual Products bill passed both houses unanimously!  We still await the Governor’s signature. This would ban toxic chemicals in menstrual products, such as: PFAS “forever chemicals”, lead, mercury, and formaldehyde. 

PFAS are a large and very persistent class of synthetic chemicals that are widely used across product sectors to resist heat, stains, oil, and water. These “forever chemicals” bioaccumulate in the environment, in our water, and in our bodies. Research continues to uncover their detrimental health effects, such as reproductive and fertility challenges, adverse developmental effects, thyroid dysfunction, weakened immune system, hormone interference, and cancer. PFAS and other toxic chemicals have no place in products that come into contact with one of the most sensitive and absorbent parts of the body.

There is growing consumer demand for natural and organic menstrual products with safer alternatives readily available. The clear concern among teenagers reflected in social media discourse is further driving this market shift. As stated in this recent op-ed, we urge Governor Hochul to sign this critically important legislation into law.