California Extends PFHxA Proposition 65 Comments To January 2027

California has extended the comment period on its proposed Proposition 65 listing of perfluorohexanoic acid, or PFHxA, and related salts. Written comments are now due by 14 January 2027, replacing the original 30 November 2026 deadline.

The Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) announced the extension in its 13 November notice. It follows requests from the Western Growers Association and the California Chamber of Commerce. The action remains a notice of intent to list, rather than a final listing.

Developmental Toxicity Proposal

The original notice, dated 30 October, proposes listing PFHxA and related salts as known to cause reproductive toxicity, specifically developmental toxicity. OEHHA is using Proposition 65's authoritative bodies mechanism and relies on findings in the US Environmental Protection Agency's 2023 toxicological review.

The consultation concerns whether the chemical meets the regulatory criteria for listing through that mechanism. OEHHA states that it has determined those criteria are met, while providing an opportunity for public comment.

Which Salts Are Covered?

The original notice identifies ammonium and sodium perfluorohexanoate. It also covers other nonmetal and alkali metal salts expected to dissociate fully in aqueous solutions at pH 4–9, without releasing other components that cause toxicity independently of PFHxA.

The notice identifies PFHxA and related salts as members of the PFAS group. It also describes PFHxA as a metabolite and degradation product of fluorotelomer-based chemicals.

Revised Submission Deadline

OEHHA must receive written comments by 14 January 2027. Its current consultation page provides an electronic submission route. The extension notice also permits submission by post or hand delivery.