Key Takeaways:
– Gov. Gavin Newsom recently signed a bill aiming to ban certain toxic chemicals in tampons and menstrual products.
– The law targets perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as ‘forever chemicals.’
– The law will be fully implemented by 2027 with heavy fines for violators.
– This move is part of a broader, nationwide push for safer feminine hygiene products.
California Takes Bold Step Towards Women’s Health
California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill into law that will drastically change the menstrual product market. The law, which is to be fully implemented by 2027, will target items that contain levels of potentially toxic chemicals.
A Welcome Crackdown on PFAS
This new law will prohibit the manufacture and sale of menstrual products that contain intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These substances have to be kept below a certain level to be determined by the Department of Toxic Substances Control if unintentionally added. Furthermore, the law also permits the imposition of fines against those who violate this prohibition.
While these chemicals enhance the absorbency of tampons and pads, critics have advocated for safer substitutes. The importance of this law lies in its safeguarding of women’s health, as PFAS have been found in various consumer goods for years. These include cosmetics, cleaning products, nonstick cookware, drinking water, and artificial turf.
Addressing Long-standing Concerns
The primary concern is based on the hazards these chemicals pose. PFAS, often recognized as ‘forever chemicals’ due to their environmental persistence, are linked to kidney and testicular cancer, heightened cholesterol levels, alterations in liver function, and hypertension and preeclampsia during pregnancy.
The advocacy for safer menstrual products isn’t new to California. A similar bill, also authored by Assemblymember Diane Papan, received bipartisan support last year but was vetoed by Gov. Newsom. Nevertheless, the Governor expressed his strong support for the bill’s intent and directed collaboration with Papan.
The Push for Nationwide Clarity
California’s law is a significant move against the backdrop of the rising concerns about the contents of feminine hygiene products across the nation. A 2022 consumer study disclosed that 22% of lab-tested tampon brands and 48% of sanitary pads and panty liners tested contained indications of PFAS.
This move follows that of Vermont, which in June became the first state to ban such chemicals from tampons and sanitary pads. Advocates have praised California’s new legislation as a further step towards eliminating PFAS from all consumer products. The state had previously enacted bans on PFAS in cosmetics, clothing, food packaging, cribs, and firefighting foam.
However, concerns remain about other potentially harmful ingredients. A recent study identified 16 potentially harmful metals in tampons sold by over a dozen brands. As a response, members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus have urged the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to address safety concerns over these materials.
The battle for safer tampons and menstrual products continues. With women using approximately 7,400 tampons during their reproductive years, the presence of potentially harmful substances in these products raises serious health concerns. The new law in California, therefore, marks a significant step forward in addressing this issue and championing women’s health. It is hoped that similar initiatives will be undertaken across the US to ensure the safety of women nationwide.