Papan Bill to Remove Toxic Chemicals from Menstrual Products

SAN MATEO – Today, Assembly Bill 246, a bill to remove toxic chemicals from menstrual products introduced by Assemblymember Diane Papan (D-San Mateo), was approved by the Assembly Committee on Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials.

“These once ubiquitous, forever compounds have been linked to health problems, including breast and other cancers, hormone disruption, kidney and liver damage, thyroid disease, developmental harm, and immune system disruption,” said Papan. “With viable alternatives available, there is no longer a good rationale for their use in menstrual products.”

In California, perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) class chemicals have already been removed from clothing, children’s toys, cookware, and food packaging but remain in many menstrual products. Assembly Bill (AB) 246 will remove these chemicals from menstrual products.

PFAS cannot be metabolized and instead accumulates in the human body. Exposure to PFAS and the accrual of these chemicals pose long-term health risks. Research has linked high rates of contaminant exposure in the vaginal area to a variety of health conditions including: accelerated ovarian aging, period irregularities and ovarian disorders like polycystic ovarian syndrome.

“Women’s health must be prioritized over the use of these unnecessary chemicals. It’s past time to protect women and our environment,” said Papan.