Relates to warning labels on certain sports and muscle creams

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Andrew J. Lanza says this is needed

A high school track star from Staten Island, Arielle Newman, died in 2007 from an accidental overdose of methyl salicylate, which is a wintergreen-scented ingredient found in liniments such as Ben Gay, Tiger Balm, and Icy Hot. The 17 year olds' death points to an urgent need for clearer warnings about the risks of using products containing methyl salicylate, especially because muscle creams have become increasingly more common in locker rooms throughout the country. Often, adolescents and parents believe that products sold over the counter, with no prescription needed, are one hundred percent safe. Excess use of over the counter sports creams, or in combination with other creams can produce unsafe results. Exercise and heat can accentuate absorption of methyl salicylate into the body. Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, convulsions, and agitation are symptoms of salicylate poisoning. One ounce of Ultra Strength Ben Gay contains 30% methyl salicylate, 10% menthol, and 4% camphor; the salicylate content of 1 teaspoon of oil of wintergreen is equivalent to 21 regular strength aspirin tablets. Clearly, parents and athletes need to be reminded about the importance of using over the counter agents as directed, and about the potential consequences of excess' use. Enacting legislation to ensure that sports creams display warning labels is a crucial step to preventing further incidents from occurring.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.