California AB 1604 Would Ban Intentionally Added Bisphenols in Paper Receipts

If adopted, the measure would affect retailers and any businesses that provide paper receipts, as well as manufacturers that produce receipt paper for use in California.

What AB 1604 Would Change

AB 1604 proposes a two-step prohibition for paper proofs of purchase provided to consumers by a business or created by a manufacturer.

From 1 January 2027, a paper proof of purchase would be required to contain no intentionally added bisphenol A (BPA). From 1 January 2028, the prohibition would expand to cover any intentionally added bisphenols.

The bill defines “proof of purchase” as a receipt for the retail sale of food, alcohol, other tangible personal property, or for the provision of services, provided at the point of sale. It also defines “intentionally added” as a chemical added to a product to achieve a functional or technical effect, including where a bisphenol is an intentional breakdown product of another added chemical that also serves a functional or technical purpose.

Enforcement, Scope, and Practical Implications

AB 1604 would authorise the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), the Attorney General, and local prosecutors to enforce the requirements. The bill would allow civil penalties up to $5,000 for a first violation and up to $10,000 for subsequent violations, with penalties directed to the Toxic Substances Control Account to support enforcement.

The legislative findings reference concerns about waste and greenhouse gas emissions from paper receipts and note that many receipts are coated with BPA or bisphenol S (BPS). For industry, the proposal signals an increased expectation that retailers and paper suppliers can demonstrate chemical control in thermal paper coatings. Businesses may need to audit receipt-paper specifications, engage suppliers on reformulation plans, and consider expanding digital proof-of-purchase options to reduce risk.

Summary

AB 1604 would create a phased ban on intentionally added bisphenols in paper receipts in California, starting with BPA in 2027 and broadening to all bisphenols in 2028. Retailers and receipt-paper manufacturers should track the bill’s progress and begin assessing whether current receipt paper formulations and procurement practices would meet the proposed requirements.