New Jersey PFAS Ban Advances For Apparel And Diaper Products

New Jersey lawmakers have advanced bill S1281, a proposal to ban apparel and diaper products containing intentionally added per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). On 4 June 2026, the Assembly Consumer Affairs Committee reported the Senate committee substitute out of committee with amendments, moving the bill to second reading in the Assembly after earlier Senate passage.

PFAS Ban Would Expand New Jersey Chemicals Law

As amended, S1281 would add apparel and diaper products to New Jersey's "Protecting Against Forever Chemicals Act". Beginning two years after the bill's effective date, no person could sell, offer for sale, manufacture, or distribute covered products containing intentionally added PFAS in the state.

The proposal would apply to apparel and separately defined diaper products. Diapers are described as absorbent products, disposable or reusable, worn to contain human waste. Menstrual products are excluded from the diaper definition.

Apparel, Diapers And PFAS Exclusions

The bill retains important exemptions. These include personal protective equipment, clothing for exclusive use by the United States military, and equipment or protective apparel designed for the safe operation of motorcycles or off-highway vehicles.

PFAS are widely known as "forever chemicals" because of their environmental persistence. They have been used in some textiles and consumer products for water, stain or grease resistance.

For brands, retailers, importers and suppliers, the proposed PFAS ban would increase pressure to verify formulations, coatings, textile treatments and supplier declarations.

Compliance Implications For Manufacturers And Retailers

Violations would be handled under the enforcement and penalty provisions of the existing Protecting Against Forever Chemicals Act. The bill also directs the Division of Consumer Affairs and the Department of Environmental Protection to adopt implementing regulations under the Administrative Procedure Act.

Companies selling into New Jersey should begin mapping affected stock keeping units, reviewing PFAS-free claims, checking contractual controls with suppliers and preparing documentation for diaper and apparel product lines.

Next Steps For S1281

S1281 is now at second reading in the Assembly. If passed by the Assembly and approved by the Governor, the two-year phase-in would begin from the bill's effective date.