New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3619

Introduced
9/19/24  

Caption

Requires filtration system to capture microfibers and microplastics on washing machines sold on or after January 1, 2030.

Impact

The bill's passage would represent a significant change in state law regarding appliance manufacturing standards and consumer protection. By mandating the inclusion of a microfiber filtration system, this bill aims to reduce environmental pollution while also protecting marine life and public health from the adverse effects of microplastic contamination. The Department of Environmental Protection is tasked with implementing rules for compliance and enforcement, implying an operational shift for manufacturers as well as potential regulatory hearings to ensure adherence to these new requirements.

Summary

Senate Bill S3619 requires that all washing machines sold in New Jersey on or after January 1, 2030, must include a microfiber filtration system designed to capture microfibers and microplastics. The legislation identifies microfibers as the most prevalent form of microplastic pollution that threatens ecosystems and public health. Each wash cycle can release millions of these tiny fibers into wastewater, which can ultimately enter human food and water sources. The intent behind this bill is to mitigate this pollution through preventative measures in household appliances.

Contention

While the bill is touted for its environmental benefits, it may face pushback from manufacturers and retailers who may incur additional costs associated with the installation of filters and compliance with new labeling requirements. Concerns may also arise about the effectiveness and maintenance obligations of such filtration systems, which could deter some consumers from purchasing compliant washing machines. The penalties for violations of this bill are steep, ranging from $10,000 for a first infraction to $30,000 for subsequent breaches, raising questions about the bill's potential impact on market pricing and availability of domestic washing machines.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ AB1628

Microfiber filtration.

NJ AB622

Washing machines: microfiber filtration.

NJ AB1724

State-owned Washing Machines: Microfiber Filtration.

NJ HB1284

EPA-MICROFIBER FILTRATION

NJ HB2568

Providing for microfiber filtration protection; imposing duties on the Department of Environmental Protection and the Environmental Quality Board; and imposing penalties.

NJ SB2727

WASH MACHINE-MICROFIBER FILTER

NJ SB0030

WASH MACHINE-MICROFIBER FILTER

NJ HB4269

WASH MACHINE-MICROFIBER FILTER

NJ HB3816

WASH MACHINE-MICROFIBER FILTER

NJ SB526

Relating to microfibers.

Similar Bills

CA AB1628

Microfiber filtration.

CA AB2214

Ocean Protection Council: microplastics.

CA AB802

Microfiber pollution.

CA AB129

Microfiber pollution.

IL HB1284

EPA-MICROFIBER FILTRATION

CA AB2297

Microfiber pollution.

CA AB1952

Washing machines: microfiber filters: state laundry facilities: pilot program.

NJ S3281

Directs DEP to establish rebate program for purchase of microfiber washing machine filter or replacement filter; appropriates $2.5 million.