Nail Salon Technicians Face High Rates of Reproductive Health Issues in New York – Call for Legislation to Improve Working Conditions and Protect Health

Nail salon technicians in New York, who are predominantly Asian and Latin American immigrant women, are facing higher rates of reproductive health issues compared to the general population. A new report from the New York Health Nails Salons Coalition highlights these disparities and calls for legislative action to improve working conditions and address health risks in the industry.

The nail salon industry in New York is growing rapidly, but a troubling reality has emerged. According to a survey of 312 women nail techs, 17% have experienced reproductive health issues, 18% have had complications during pregnancy, and 7% have had children born with birth defects – all higher than the general U.S. population rates. This is despite the fact that nail salon workers are exposed to harmful chemicals on a daily basis as part of their job.

Assembly Member Harry Bronson emphasizes the need to address the harmful practices in the industry that prioritize cost-cutting over the well-being of employees. He is sponsoring legislation called the Nail Salon Minimum Standards Council Act which aims to create new labor standards for nail salons in New York by forming an industry council with input from workers, employers, and government representatives. Senator Jessica Ramos is also sponsoring this bill which she believes will protect the health and rights of nail salon workers while supporting economic growth without compromising small businesses.

The coalition of nail salon workers, elected officials, and reproductive health advocates are calling for urgent action to implement regulations that prioritize worker safety and well-being. They believe it is possible to support economic growth while protecting the health and rights of nail salon workers simultaneously. The report highlights that reproductive health issues among nail technicians should not be ignored as it puts them at risk of long term harm and it’s time for legislative action to ensure they receive adequate protection from harmful chemicals used in their profession.