Us Congress House Bill HB5957

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/13/23
• Refer: 10/25/23
• Refer: 11/3/23

Caption

Robin Danielson Menstrual Product and Intimate Care Product Safety Act of 2023

Impact

If enacted, HB5957 would authorize the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to conduct research focused on identifying risks linked to substances in menstrual and intimate care products. The bill emphasizes the necessity for thorough safety examinations for products typically entering the market with minimal regulatory oversight. It aims to foster better health outcomes by generating data that could lead to more informed consumer choices and potential regulatory actions concerning product safety in the future. The result of this research could lead to enhanced consumer protection laws at both the state and federal levels.

Summary

House Bill 5957, formally known as the 'Robin Danielson Menstrual Product and Intimate Care Product Safety Act of 2023', seeks to amend the Public Health Service Act by establishing a comprehensive program of research on the risks posed by prevalent chemicals in menstrual and intimate care products. Identifying contaminants such as dioxins, phthalates, and undisclosed fragrance chemicals, the bill aims at understanding their potential health impacts, specifically concerning reproductive health and long-term safety for users. It highlights the lack of existing research systematic enough to ensure the safety of these widely used products, underscoring concerns regarding exposure over many years.

Contention

While many legislators and advocacy groups support the intent of HB5957 to improve public health, some may express concerns regarding implications for manufacturers and the potential for increased regulation. The bill’s focus on chemical safety can raise questions about the liability of manufacturers in terms of disclosures and product approvals. Further, discussions may arise about equity in health, as certain populations disproportionately affected by these chemical exposures may not have had access to the protections this bill aims to establish.