New York, NY – Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal (D/WF -Manhattan) announced today that her legislation (A.43-C/S.2279-C) to require ingredient listings on all packages of diapers sold in New York State was signed into law. The law makes New York the first state in the nation to require ingredient labeling on diaper packaging. The law, which applies to both baby and adult garments, was sponsored by Cordell Cleare in the State Senate.

“When it comes to products that we use on our bodies or our children’s bodies, often for years on end, there should be no secrets,” said Assemblymember Rosenthal. “Children are directly exposed to the various chemicals and ingredients used in diapers for years, but until now consumers have been kept in the dark about the list and nature of ingredients.”

In 2019, Rosenthal sponsored the first-in-the-nation law requiring the labeling of ingredients on menstrual product packaging. Upon taking effect, most manufacturers implemented ingredient labeling on packaging nationwide, extending the benefits of this law far beyond New York consumers. Like menstrual products, this new law will require manufacturers to include a plain and conspicuous list of all ingredients, in order of predominance, on diaper packaging. Ingredient listings must be on product packaging within one year or manufacturers risk penalties of up to $1,000 per package.

During their first year of life, a baby may wear as many as 2,000 diapers. These products are in continuous contact with a newborn’s skin, which is significantly thinner and more permeable than that of an adult. The World Health Organization recognizes exposure to chemicals as a threat to human health, but until this new law, no requirement existed for diaper manufacturers to disclose the ingredients in their products.

Researchers have found volatile organic compounds, phthalates, formaldehyde and other chemicals in various brands of disposable diapers. Long-term exposure, beginning at an early age, could impair a child’s physical and cognitive development and in some cases, exposure may cause damage to the liver, kidneys and central nervous system. Adult diapers, also covered by this law, have also been found to contain many of the same potentially harmful ingredients, including phthalates, parabens, bisphenols, which are all known endocrine disruptors that may interfere with the body’s hormone system. Synthetic fragrances, dyes and other chemicals have also been known to cause rashes and other skin irritation.

“Much like with menstrual products, consumers have a right to know which ingredients are in the products they are wearing on their bodies or putting on their child,” said Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal. “Manufacturers have not been quick to offer up this information, but decades of research have uncovered some of the harmful chemicals and ingredients commonly used in diapers. With this new law, consumers will have access to the information needed to make a safe choice when purchasing products for themselves and their families.”