MN
Minnesota Senate Bill SF834

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF834

Introduced
1/26/23  
Refer
1/26/23  
Refer
3/6/23  
Refer
3/20/23  

Caption

PFAS in certain products prohibition

Impact

As it stands, SF834 significantly shifts Minnesota's regulatory framework regarding chemical use in consumer products. Beginning January 1, 2025, items like carpets, cookware, and cosmetics with intentionally added PFAS could be banned from sale. This proactive approach aims to enhance public health and safety while addressing environmental concerns around these chemicals. Manufacturers will need to adapt to these restrictions and regulations, potentially leading to increased costs and shifts in product development.

Summary

SF834 focuses on prohibiting the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in various consumer products and specifically targets class B firefighting foam. This legislation aims to reduce environmental contamination by limiting the manufacture, sale, and distribution of products that contain intentionally added PFAS chemicals, which are known for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks. The bill outlines specific exemptions, particularly for uses in terminals and oil refineries, and mandates that businesses must provide detailed reports on their use of PFAS-containing products.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SF834 appears mixed, with strong support from public health advocates and environmental groups pushing for stricter controls on PFAS, citing concerns over contamination and health effects on communities. Conversely, there are apprehensions from industry stakeholders regarding the feasibility of immediate compliance with the new regulations. These stakeholders fear the economic implications and the challenges in finding viable alternatives to PFAS in products, given their unique properties.

Contention

Notable areas of contention include the provisions regarding exemptions for specific industries, such as oil refineries, which could potentially undermine the bill's intention by allowing continued use of PFAS under certain conditions. Additionally, there are ongoing discussions about the timeline for compliance and the adequacy of existing alternatives to PFAS-containing products. These points highlight the tension between industry needs and public health objectives, revealing a complex landscape of interests that the bill navigates.

Latest SF834 Activity

Companion Bills

MN HF1000

Similar To PFAS prohibited in certain products, disclosure required, and rulemaking authorized.

Similar Bills

MN HF742

Firefighting foam use prohibited, exemptions allowed, reports required, and money appropriated.

MN SF776

Firefighting foam use prohibition and certain exemption authorization; appropriating money

NJ A1413

Prohibits sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firefighting foam containing intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances; requires DEP to establish collection and disposal program; appropriates $250,000.

NJ A4125

Prohibits sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firefighting foam containing intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances; requires DEP to establish collection and disposal program; appropriates $250,000.

NJ S2712

Prohibits sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firefighting foam containing intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances; requires DEP to establish collection and disposal program; appropriates $250,000.

NJ A5537

Provides extension for fire departments on prohibition on use of firefighting foam containing intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances; appropriates $500,000 to DEP for grant program to reimburse municipalities for costs of replacing firefighting foam.

NJ S4346

Provides extension for fire departments on prohibition on use of firefighting foam containing intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances; appropriates $500,000 to DEP for grant program to reimburse municipalities for costs of replacing firefighting foam.

NJ S1417

Prohibits sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firefighting foam containing intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances; requires DEP to establish collection and disposal program; appropriates $250,000.