A Rhode Island bill has been introduced to phase out the use of PFAS in various consumer products by 2032, targeting their potential health risks.
Alex Kuffner reports for Providence Journal.
In short:
- Rhode Island aims to expand its ban on "forever chemicals," addressing concerns over cancers, hormonal imbalances, and other health issues.
- The proposed legislation targets a wide range of products, from cookware to cosmetics, and mandates disclosure for those still containing PFAS.
- Enforcement challenges and industry concerns highlight the complexity of regulating a chemical class with over 14,000 compounds.
Key quote:
"We are never going to get PFAS out of the environment and out of our bodies unless we get it out of the products being sold in the state."
— Sen. Meghan Kallman, a Pawtucket Democrat
Why this matters:
The push to ban or restrict per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in consumer goods is gaining momentum across the United States, reflecting growing concerns about the environmental and health risks posed by these chemicals. Some products with PFAS — a common treatment for water and stain resistant outdoor apparel — will soon be illegal to sell in many states.
