New York Becomes The First State To Require Tampons And Pads To Disclose Ingredients

New York will become the first state in the nation to require the disclosure of ingredients in tampons and other menstrual products.

The law was signed on Friday by Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo, and takes effect in 180 days.

According to the Associated Press,  Gov. Cuomo said menstrual products could contain toxic or allergy-causing chemicals that left undisclosed could present health risks to consumers.

Manufacturers of menstrual products, including pads and tampons, will now have 18 months to develop new packaging or labels to inform the public.

Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal says consumers currently aren’t informed of changes in materials, including how much cotton is used compared to synthetic materials.

The New York City assembly woman noted that women may use the same menstrual products for decades without knowing the exact materials used in them.

She said the legislation she sponsored will also help reduce the stigma around menstruation.