California Plans Workshop On ortho-Phthalates In Children’s Products

California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) will hold a public virtual workshop on 5 November 2026 on its plan to list children’s products containing ortho-phthalates as a Priority Product. The announcement describes a proposal under the Safer Consumer Products programme, rather than a completed listing or new product ban.

DTSC will explain why it proposes regulating this product-chemical combination and seek feedback on which product types to prioritise within the wider children’s-products category.

Product Scope And Alternatives

The workshop will also address supply chains for different types of children’s products and potential alternatives to ortho-phthalate plasticisers. A presentation by DTSC staff will be followed by audience questions and comments.

As checked on 29 October, the announcement says a draft product-chemical profile, agenda, questions for interested parties and CalSAFER comment-submission resources are coming soon. It does not yet provide those materials or a final list of product types covered by a regulation.

The Existing Priority Product Process

DTSC’s programme overview explains that Priority Products are specific product-chemical combinations listed in the California Code of Regulations through formal rulemaking. The programme evaluates potentially harmful chemicals and safer alternatives, with regulatory responses informed by alternatives analysis.

That process distinguishes an early workshop from adoption of a listing. This announcement invites input on the planned scope and rationale; it does not announce that the proposed children’s-product combination has completed rulemaking.

The workshop notice includes a Zoom registration link. DTSC says participants will also have opportunities to remain involved as it develops its understanding of product supply chains and alternative plasticisers.