Iowa House Bill HF62

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23

Caption

A bill for an act prohibiting the use, manufacture, distribution, and sale of consumer products containing certain chemicals, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.

Impact

The passage of HF62 will have a significant impact on state laws regulating consumer products. By prohibiting the sale of upholstered furniture containing flame-retardant chemicals and food packaging made with perfluoroalkyl substances, the bill aims to reduce exposure to these harmful substances among Wisconsin residents. It reinforces existing environmental and consumer protection regulations while also mandating the Department of Health and Human Services to conduct a study on alternatives to these chemicals and report back with recommendations by the end of 2024.

Summary

House File 62 aims to prohibit the use, manufacture, distribution, and sale of certain consumer products containing harmful chemicals, specifically flame-retardant substances and perfluoroalkyl compounds. It delineates a framework whereby upholstered furniture and food packaging containing specified harmful chemicals will be banned from sale starting January 1, 2024. The bill seeks to protect consumers and the environment by addressing health risks associated with these chemicals, which are known to have long-term harmful effects on health and safety.

Contention

Debate surrounding HF62 may focus on the balance between consumer safety and the potential economic impacts on manufacturers and retailers who deal with these products. Critics may argue that such sweeping prohibitions could increase costs for consumers and challenge businesses that would need to adapt to new regulations. Additionally, stakeholders may express concerns over the feasibility of implementing such regulations, particularly in terms of compliance and enforcement among small businesses and manufacturers. The exemptions included in the bill for used products and those already imported raise questions about the effectiveness and uniformity of the proposed regulatory framework.