On January 1, 2017, a new law will come into effect in Minnesota that bans any consumer retail hygiene product that contains triclosan. Minnesota is the first state to take action against this chemical, which is found in 75% of antibacterial soaps. Dispensers of antibacterial soap are commonly used in public bathrooms.

According to recent studies, triclosan can disrupt hormones critical for reproduction and development, at least in lab animals, and contribute to the development of resistant bacteria. What’s more is that the Food and Drug Administration has concluded that there is no evidence proving that antibacterial soaps are any more effective than non-antibacterial soap and water, showing that at the end of the day, antibacterial soap does more bad than good.

“I have no idea what triclosan soap is! But since it’s hurting me I guess I kind of want it gone,” said sophomore Niccolo Joy. “I think it’s good that Minnesota is taking leadership.”

“I don’t really wash my hands that often anyway,” said sophomore Will Moreton.

Although Minnesota is the first state to take action, it is likely that other states will soon follow. Nationwide regulations against triclosan have become more strict. This past December,  the FDA ruled that antibacterial soap manufacturers must prove that their soap is more effective than normal soap, and that it brings no harm.