The letter below was sent to Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. from a national, bipartisan coalition of female lawmakers, led by Minnesota State Senator Julia Coleman (R–Waconia). 

Dear Secretary Kennedy,

I am writing to urge you to prioritize national action to address the presence of toxic chemicals—including PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), lead, and arsenic—in menstrual products. As our nation works to improve health outcomes for all Americans, it is essential that we ensure the safety of products that people use on and in their bodies every month, often for decades of their lives.

Recent investigations and scientific studies have found alarming levels of toxic substances in pads, tampons, and other menstrual products. PFAS, sometimes referred to as "forever chemicals," are particularly concerning due to their persistence in the body and environment, as well as their links to cancer, hormone disruption, reproductive harm, and immune system suppression. Likewise, exposure to lead and arsenic—even at low levels—can cause lasting damage to neurological, reproductive, and developmental health.

These products are marketed as safe and trusted, but without federal oversight or ingredient disclosure requirements, consumers are left in the dark, unable to make informed choices about the products they rely on for basic health and hygiene.

In Minnesota, Senator Julia Coleman is leading the way with Senate File 376—a bill that sets a precedent for meaningful action. SF 376 would prohibit the sale of menstrual products containing intentionally added toxic chemicals like PFAS, lead, and arsenic, while requiring full ingredient disclosure. It offers a strong and sensible road map that could be replicated nationwide to protect the health of those who menstruate.

Secretary Kennedy, I am asking for your leadership. Please direct the Department of Health and Human Services to:

1. Investigate the prevalence of toxic chemicals in menstrual products.
2. Work with the FDA to strengthen regulation and require comprehensive ingredient disclosure.
3. Launch a national public education campaign on safe menstrual product use and alternatives.
4. Support research into the long-term health effects of chemical exposures from these products.

Everyone deserves access to safe, non-toxic menstrual products—no matter their income, race, or zip code. We cannot ignore the clear risks posed by unregulated chemicals in products used by millions of Americans every day.

Thank you for your attention to this critical public health issue. I welcome the opportunity to work with your office to advance these efforts.

Minnesota
Senator Julia Coleman | Assistant Minority Leader
Senator Karin Housley | Assistant Minority Leader
Senator Oumou Verbeten | Assistant Majority Leader
Senator Maye Quade
Senator Judy Seeberger