At least 11 states have passed new laws this year restricting the use of PFAS, chemicals linked to cancer and immune damage, in everyday products like cosmetics, cookware and firefighting foam.
Shalina Chatlani reports for Stateline.
In short:
- States such as California, Maryland and Vermont are leading efforts to limit or ban PFAS in various consumer goods and firefighting materials.
- PFAS compounds, often called "forever chemicals," do not break down in nature and are found in the blood of most Americans, posing serious health risks.
- Industry advocates argue against broad bans, citing the essential role of PFAS in medical devices, renewable energy and electronics.
Key quote:
“We now know that they’re linked with different types of cancer, suppression of the vaccine antibody response, liver damage, elevated cholesterol and developmental effects.”
— Jamie DeWitt, professor of environmental molecular toxicology at Oregon State University
Why this matters:
PFAS exposure poses long-term health risks, including cancer and these chemicals are prevalent in everyday products. Increasing state-level bans and federal regulations reflect growing concerns over their presence in the environment and in human bodies.
Related: Op-ed: After decades of disinformation, the US finally begins regulating PFAS chemicals
