California Legislature Passes SB 754 on Monitoring Lead Levels in Tampons and Pads

California Legislature Passes SB 754 on Monitoring Lead Levels in Tampons and Pads

SACRAMENTO - The California Legislature has passed SB 754, authored by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles), which will require manufacturers of disposable tampons and pads to monitor and report on potentially hazardous chemicals in their products, including lead, arsenic, and cadmium. The bill passed the State Senate in a concurrence vote yesterday and cleared the Assembly on Tuesday with bipartisan support, sending it to Governor Newsom's desk for signature.

This legislation comes after a study last year found lead, arsenic, and cadmium in every tampon tested. It requires menstrual product manufacturers to report chemical concentrations to the Department of Toxic Substance Control beginning December 31, 2026, and permits the Department of Toxic Substance Control to verify and publish any results received.

"This bill represents a significant step forward in protecting the health and safety of Californians who menstruate," said Senator Durazo. "No one should have to worry about exposure to toxic chemicals from essential health products."

The passage comes as the California Legislature approaches gender parity, with women now holding 59 of 120 seats. As Senator Catherine Blakespear, chair of Senate Environmental Quality, noted during the bill's review, "[This bill is] certainly a reflection of the fact that… half of the State Senate is now women… these are changes that happen because women are in power, and it's very important that we recognize that."

SB 754 builds upon California's existing framework that already prohibits menstrual products containing intentionally added PFAS chemicals. If signed by Governor Newsom, California would become a national leader in menstrual product safety standards, potentially influencing policy nationwide.

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Senator María Elena Durazo represents the 26th Senate District which includes Central Los Angeles, Northeast Los Angeles, East Los Angeles, and the City of Vernon.