New Jersey Assembly Bill A1421

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

"Protecting Against Forever Chemicals Act"; establishes requirements, prohibitions, and programs for regulation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

Impact

The act aims to significantly reduce the presence of PFAS in the state by implementing strict labeling and reporting requirements. The DEP is tasked with initiating a source reduction program to mitigate PFAS contamination in air, water, and soil and will conduct comprehensive monitoring and research regarding the impact of PFAS on public health and the environment. Funded with an appropriation of $5 million from the General Fund, the bill provides resources for educational efforts about the dangers of PFAS and ensures the availability of safer alternatives to these chemicals.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1421, also known as the 'Protecting Against Forever Chemicals Act,' establishes comprehensive regulations concerning the use and sale of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in products sold in New Jersey. The bill mandates that manufacturers provide detailed notifications to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) regarding products that contain intentionally added PFAS. The notification must include specific information such as product descriptions, purpose, and quantity of PFAS present. Additionally, a fee of $1,000 per notification will be required, and non-compliance will result in prohibitions against selling such products after a two-year grace period following the bill's enactment.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding A1421 include concerns from manufacturers regarding the feasibility and costs associated with compliance. Some industry representatives argue that the bill could lead to increased prices for consumers or reduced availability of certain products due to restrictive measures. Furthermore, opponents express worries over potential economic consequences and the implementation of a regulatory framework seen as excessive. On the other hand, supporters herald A1421 as a crucial step toward safeguarding public health and the environment from the harms posed by PFAS, emphasizing the necessity for transparency and reduction of these harmful substances in everyday products.