Key takeaway
What This Development Means
California's Assembly Bill 347, signed into law on September 29, 2024, enforces strict regulations on perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals," in household products. By 2030, manufacturers of products such as textiles, food packaging, and children's items must comply with stringent PFAS testing and registration requirements. The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) will oversee enforcement, conducting random product tests and issuing fines starting at $10,000 for violations. This law aims to reduce public exposure to harmful chemicals, safeguarding consumer health.
What is Assembly Bill 347 (AB 347)?
Assembly Bill 347 (AB 347) is a landmark consumer protection law in California, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom on September 29, 2024. The bill aims to regulate and eventually eliminate perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals," from household products. These chemicals are highly resistant to breaking down in the environment and have been linked to numerous health risks, including cancer, liver damage, and immune system disorders.AB 347 sets forth a timeline for compliance, requiring manufacturers of certain household goods to meet strict guidelines for PFAS usage. The bill mandates that the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) oversee testing, registration, and enforcement. By July 1, 2030, all manufacturers of affected products must fully comply with the PFAS restrictions outlined in the law. The legislation also includes provisions for penalties, with fines starting at $10,000 for violators. AB 347 is a significant step in California’s broader effort to phase out harmful chemicals from consumer products and protect public health.
What products are affected by AB 347?
AB 347 applies to a wide range of household products, particularly those frequently used by children and those involving textiles and food packaging. Juvenile products, such as crib mattresses, highchairs, booster seats, and strollers, are key targets due to their direct contact with infants and young children. The bill also covers textiles, including furniture upholstery, clothing, and bedding, which have historically used PFAS for their water- and stain-resistant qualities. Additionally, food packaging that comes into direct contact with consumables is regulated under the law, as PFAS chemicals can transfer from packaging to food. Manufacturers of these products must comply with PFAS testing and certification requirements, registering with the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) by July 1, 2029, and confirming their products adhere to the chemical limits set by the law.
Source basis: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240AB347
On September 29, 2024, California Governor Gavin Newsom approved Assembly Bill 347, marking a significant step in consumer protection by regulating perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). AB 347, authored by Assemblymember Phil Ting, mandates the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) to enforce PFAS restrictions on household products, with full compliance required by July 1, 2030. Manufacturers must register their products, undergo testing, and meet strict guidelines aimed at reducing public exposure to these toxic substances.
California’s Fight Against PFAS: New Enforcement Measures
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as "forever chemicals" due to their persistence in the environment, are widely found in household items such as textiles, food packaging, and juvenile products. Recognising their harmful health impacts, including links to cancer and immune system damage, California's new law expands on previous restrictions by introducing comprehensive enforcement mechanisms. AB 347 requires manufacturers of affected products to register with the DTSC by July 1, 2029. The bill specifically targets items like crib mattresses, children’s highchairs, food packaging, and various textiles. These companies must certify compliance with PFAS regulations and face potential fines starting at $10,000 for non-compliance.
Enforcement And Penalties
Under AB 347, the DTSC has been granted authority to conduct random tests of products sold within the state to ensure compliance with PFAS restrictions. These tests may rely on third-party laboratories and will be used to verify whether products contain PFAS levels exceeding the allowed limit of 100 parts per million. Violators will receive a notice of violation and may face fines and legal injunctions to halt the sale of non-compliant goods. By July 1, 2033, the DTSC is required to submit a detailed report to the California Legislature summarising its enforcement activities, including the number of products tested and penalties imposed.
Impact On Manufacturers And Consumers
For manufacturers, the implementation of AB 347 brings both administrative and financial implications. Companies will need to pay registration fees, comply with testing protocols, and ensure that their supply chains are free of PFAS. Despite the added costs, these measures aim to safeguard public health by reducing consumers' exposure to hazardous chemicals commonly found in everyday items. For consumers, the law represents a major step forward in the state’s ongoing efforts to regulate harmful substances in consumer goods. This new enforcement regime ensures that by 2030, items like baby products, foam pillows, and food containers in California will
As California tightens its regulations on PFAS, AB 347 sets a clear timeline and strict enforcement for manufacturers to comply with safety standards. This legislative action highlights the state’s commitment to public health, placing responsibility on producers to eliminate toxic substances from everyday products.
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