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HB 998

Menstrual products ingredient labeling; restriction of substances, delayed effective date.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rae Cousins and 2 co-sponsors

Virginia bill requires menstrual product manufacturers to disclose all ingredients on packaging, restrict certain substances, and face civil penalties for non-compliance.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0249)
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Bill Summary · HB 998

Legislative bill overview

HB 998 requires manufacturers of menstrual products sold in Virginia to disclose all ingredients on packaging and restricts the use of certain substances in these products. The bill establishes civil penalties for non-compliance with labeling and ingredient restrictions.

Why is this important

Menstrual products are used by millions of Virginians and come into prolonged contact with sensitive tissue, yet currently have minimal federal ingredient disclosure requirements compared to other consumer products. This bill aims to increase transparency and consumer safety by giving people information about what substances are in products they depend on regularly.

Potential points of contention

  • Industry compliance costs: Manufacturers may argue that reformulating products and redesigning packaging to meet new ingredient restrictions and labeling requirements increases production expenses, potentially raising consumer prices
  • Scope of restricted substances: Disagreement may exist over which specific substances should be prohibited—some stakeholders may view restrictions as scientifically justified while others claim evidence is insufficient or that alternatives are unavailable
  • Enforcement mechanism: The civil penalty structure and enforcement process could face scrutiny regarding whether penalties are appropriately calibrated and how violations will be detected and prosecuted

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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