Overview
In March, New York passed legislation (S.1548/A.1502) to prohibit the use of PFAS “forever chemicals” and other harmful substances in menstrual products like tampons. New York is one of at least 37 states considering legislation to restrict the use of PFAS in 2025, many of which have increased their focus on getting forever chemicals out of personal care products.
- Why It Matters: Menstrual products from popular brands have been found to contain toxic chemicals like PFAS, as well as heavy metals like lead and arsenic. These substances are linked to serious health risks, including cancer, reproductive harm, and weakened immune systems. Without restrictions on the use of toxins in menstrual products, people who menstruate face an increased risk of long-term exposure to hazardous materials and negative health outcomes.
Key Components of New York’s Bill
New York’s bill (S.1548/A.1502) seeks to safeguard public health and reduce the use of harmful chemicals in menstrual products by doing the following:
- Defining Restricted Substances: The bill defines “restricted substances” to include a list of chemicals deemed unsafe for use in menstrual products, including, but not limited to, PFAS, lead, mercury, and formaldehyde.
- Prohibiting Harmful Chemicals: One year after the law is enacted, manufacturers would be prohibited from selling menstrual products in New York State containing intentionally added ingredients from the restricted substances list in any quantity.
- Setting Thresholds: In the second phase of the bill, the New York State Department of Health, in consultation with the Department of Environmental Conservation, would establish maximum allowable levels (“thresholds”) for restricted substances in menstrual products, which must not be exceeded even if the substances are unintentionally added. Companies must comply with these thresholds no later than 2029.
Bill Status and Sponsors
New York S.1548 / A.1502 has passed both the state Senate and Assembly, and now awaits the Governor’s signature to be enacted into law. The bill is sponsored by NEC Members State Senator Nathalia Fernandez and State Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal.
What Other States Are Doing: PFAS and Personal Care Products
If the bill is enacted, New York would join a growing list of states addressing the use of harmful chemicals in menstrual products. Vermont became one of the first states to ban PFAS in menstrual products in 2024, and other states such as Minnesota, Maine, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Colorado have enacted similar bans and restrictions. Many of the 37 states considering PFAS legislation in 2025 – including California and New Jersey – reflect a nationwide movement toward eliminating toxins from menstrual products and other personal care items.
Stay Up To Date on Environmental Health Policy With NEC
Stay current on toxic chemical policy and other environmental health trends across the country this year with NEC’s Bill Tracking Map.
Support the Network
Your generosity helps create opportunities for state legislators to meet, collaborate, and improve lives in their states.
Subscribe to the National Environmental Caucus Newsletter
Stay up to date on upcoming events, opportunities to expand your network, and the latest environmental policy trends from across the U.S.
