Senate Bill 682, authored by Sen. Ben Allen, D-Santa Monica, would bar the sale and distribution of several products containing intentionally added PFAS
The California Legislature has passed a bill that would prohibit the use of certain toxic “forever chemicals” in six new categories of consumer products, expanding the state’s efforts to curb contamination linked to the substances.
Senate Bill 682, authored by Sen. Ben Allen, D-Santa Monica, would bar the sale and distribution of cookware, food packaging, juvenile products, dental floss, cleaning products and ski wax containing intentionally added PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. The measure now heads to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk.
PFAS, which do not easily break down in the environment, have been linked to cancer, infertility, liver and kidney disease, and developmental problems. The chemicals are widely used for their nonstick and water-resistant qualities and have been found in food, water and the human bloodstream.
“PFAS pose a level of serious risks that require us to take a measured approach to reduce their proliferation and unnecessary use throughout the marketplace,” Allen said in a statement.
The bill phases in restrictions over several years, with most products covered starting in 2028. Cookware would be included beginning in 2030, and some cleaning product components would remain exempt until 2031.
California already bans PFAS in textiles, cosmetics, firefighting foam and some juvenile products. Lawmakers said the latest measure builds on those rules while following similar prohibitions enacted in other states.
Environmental groups, public health advocates and sanitation agencies backed the bill, citing high costs of removing PFAS from drinking water and wastewater systems.
“No one should be exposed to toxic PFAS just by cooking a meal or cleaning their home,” said Susan Little, California legislative director at the Environmental Working Group. “Phasing out these hazardous chemicals from products like cookware and cleaners is a smart, science-based step to protect public health.”
