On January 31, 2024, the New York State Senate enacted Bill S3529A aiming to prohibit the use of certain restricted substances in menstrual products including, but not limited to, talc, lead, and mercury. This Bill also bans the use of restricted substances such as fragrance, colorant, dye, preservation, or other intentionally added ingredient for the presentation of products. This Bill shall take effect after 12 months after it shall have become a law.
Restricted substances refer to:
- per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS);
- formaldehyde;
- talc;
- dibutyl phthalate and di(2)exylhexyl phthalate;
- toluene;
- triclosan;
- isobutyl-, isopropyl-, butyl- and propylparaben;
- butylphenyl methylpropional
- mercury and related compounds; and
- lead.
ChemRadar Insights
California and Nevada had implemented regulations on the restriction of feminine hygiene products which shall be labelled of ingredients on product packages. Bill S3529A also specifies restrictions on the restricted substances in fragrances, colorants, dyes, or preservatives, thereby providing clearer guidelines for compliance, which unveils the obscurity of restricted substances.
The implementation of Bill S3529A may bring compliance challenges relevant companies. Therefore, it is necessary for enterprises to examine the ingredients of products for product compliance. Enterprises can seek safety alternative materials to facilitate commercial activities.
