New York Bans Sale of Clothing Containing PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’ After January 1st, 2025
New York has introduced a groundbreaking measure to protect both public health and the environment by prohibiting the sale of clothing that contains perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals," starting January 1st, 2025. These chemicals, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), have been linked to a wide range of health issues and are difficult to break down in the environment.
The new law, added to Section 37-0121 of the Environmental Conservation Law (ECL), targets clothing that intentionally adds PFAS, banning the sale of "new, unused apparel" containing these chemicals starting next year. While the initial restriction focuses on all types of clothing, a second phase kicking in on January 1st, 2028, will specifically target outerwear designed for extreme wet conditions that contain added PFAS.
Kate Donovan, director of Health and Environment for the Northeast at the Natural Resources Defense Council, revealed to Fast Company that New York is also working on legislation to ban PFAS in non-apparel and non-home textile products, such as paint and dental floss. Additionally, two more bills are in consideration, aiming to prohibit PFAS in cosmetics and menstrual products.
The decision to implement this ban comes amidst growing concern over the widespread use and persistence of PFAS in the environment and their detrimental effects on human health. About 97% of Americans have detectable levels of these chemicals in their bodies, according to studies by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Penalties for violations of the new law could reach up to $1,000 per day for each infraction, or up to $2,500 for a second offense, as reported by Fast Company.
This bold measure by New York sends a strong signal to the fashion industry and policymakers across the nation, emphasizing the urgent need to address the harmful impacts of PFAS and prioritize a healthier, more sustainable future.
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