ALBANY, NY — In a major victory for public health and consumer transparency, Governor Hochul signed into law Bill A.1797, authored and championed by Assemblywoman Alicia L. Hyndman. This groundbreaking legislation mandates that manufacturers of hair relaxers sold in New York State must include clear, conspicuous warning labels if their products contain known carcinogens or reproductive toxicants.

For decades, products marketed primarily to women of color have contained hidden, caustic chemicals linked to severe health issues, including uterine fibroids, hormonal disruption, and increased cancer risks. This law ensures that for the first time, New York consumers will have the full truth on the bottle before they buy.

"This is not just about hair; it is about our health and our fundamental right to know," said NYS Assemblywoman Alicia L. Hyndman. "For too long, the beauty industry has marketed products to Black and Brown women that come at a silent, dangerous cost. We have seen the studies linking these chemicals to fibroids and cancer, yet the packaging remained silent. With the Governor’s signature, we are stripping away that secrecy. We are empowering women and beauty workers to make informed choices about the products they put on their bodies and in their businesses."

Key Provisions of the Legislation (A.1797):

• Mandatory Warning Labels: Any hair relaxer containing chemicals defined as carcinogens or reproductive toxicants must carry a clear warning label.
• Consumer Visibility: The warning must be printed in a font size no smaller than 12-point, ensuring it cannot be hidden in fine print.
• Accountability: The New York State Attorney General is empowered to enforce this rule, seeking injunctions, and levying civil penalties of up to $500 per unit for repeat violations.

Impact on the Community: Research cited during the legislative process highlights that women in the beauty industry - and the consumers they serve - are frequently exposed to these harmful chemicals without knowledge of the long-term risks. This legislation places New York at the forefront of the movement for safer personal care products.

The law will take effect in 18 months, giving manufacturers time to update their packaging to comply with the new safety standards.