Nation-Leading ban on PFAS and Toxics in Menstrual Products bill signed into law!

On December 19th, after passing both houses unanimously, the PFAS and Toxics in Menstrual Products bill was signed by Governor Hochul into law! This will ban toxic chemicals in period products, including: PFAS “forever chemicals”, lead, formaldehyde, parabens, phthalates, and more. While several states have banned PFAS in these products, New York, alongside Vermont, is the first to ban additional toxic chemicals.

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.

With safer alternatives readily available, there is growing consumer demand for natural and organic menstrual products, being further driven by the clear concern among teenagers reflected in social media discourse. The bill will go into effect on December 19, 2026, and with the large size of New York State's economy, this will have influence on a national market shift over time.