Bill > S06723

This bill requires manufacturers of hair relaxer products sold in New York to provide clear warning labels on their packaging if the products contain certain harmful chemicals classified as carcinogens or reproductive toxicants. Specifically, the bill defines a hair relaxer as a product applied to hair to weaken its structure and straighten it, and establishes precise definitions for carcinogens (including those identified by the World Health Organization, United States Department of Health and Human Services, and Environmental Protection Agency) and reproductive toxicants. If a hair relaxer contains a carcinogen, the label must state "This product contains a chemical known to cause cancer"; if it contains a reproductive toxicant, the label must state "This product contains a chemical known to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm"; and if it contains both, the label must indicate both risks. The labels must be in at least 12-point font and clearly displayed on the product or packaging. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring compliance, and violations can result in legal action by the attorney general, including potential injunctions and civil penalties of up to $250 per unit for a first offense and $500 per unit for subsequent offenses. The law will take effect 18 months after becoming law, allowing manufacturers time to update their product labeling.

Business and Industry

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6723