Utah may soon lead the way among red states in regulating transparency for menstrual hygiene products. A draft bill from Rep. Kristen Chevrier, R-Highland, proposes requiring manufacturers of tampons, pads, and menstrual cups to disclose all ingredients used in their products — including potential contaminants such as arsenic, lead, and cadmium.
The proposed legislation follows a 2024 study that detected measurable levels of toxic metals in several popular tampon brands, sparking national concern and prompting the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to launch its own investigation.
Chevrier told the Health and Human Services Interim Committee that her bill aims to ensure consumers know exactly what is in the products they use. “The bill creates labeling requirements for menstrual products, including tampons, sanitary napkins, and menstrual cups,” she said. “It’s a starting point.”
If passed, the law would take effect in 2027, mandating that all menstrual product packaging include a full list of “intentionally added ingredients” in order of predominance, and note the presence of heavy metals.
The FDA’s preliminary findings published in December 2024 did not classify any menstrual products as unsafe but acknowledged the need for more research. The agency is currently testing how much metal, if any, is released during normal use.
Other states such as California and New York already require similar labeling or ban specific ingredients, but Utah would be the first Republican-majority state to move toward transparency mandates for menstrual products.
During committee discussions, lawmakers expressed both support and caution. Rep. Logan Monson, R-Blanding, questioned whether listing ingredients would be enough or if the bill should go further. Chevrier agreed that additional restrictions could be considered later: “This is just a starting point right now.”
The initiative reflects growing bipartisan awareness of women’s health safety and consumer transparency — marking a notable shift for a conservative state like Utah.
