Rhode Island House Bill H7436

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/11/22
• Refer: 2/11/22

Caption

Comprehensive Pfas Ban Act Of 2022

Impact

The passage of H7436 is expected to impact numerous industries within Rhode Island, particularly those involved in manufacturing and selling products that currently contain PFAS. These industries may face increased regulatory scrutiny, and manufacturers will be required to adapt to new compliance measures, which could involve reformulating products or seeking safer alternatives. The enforcement of this ban will likely lead to better public health outcomes by reducing exposure to harmful chemicals over time.

Summary

House Bill H7436, also known as the Comprehensive PFAS Ban Act of 2022, aims to prohibit the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in various consumer products, including carpets, upholstery, textiles, cosmetics, and cookware. The bill outlines a phased approach to enforce a complete ban on these substances by the year 2031, necessitating the Department of Environmental Management to regulate the use of PFAS and identify priority products for this regulation. The bill specifies that certain exemptions may apply where the use of PFAS is deemed unavoidable for safety or functional reasons.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include concerns from industry stakeholders about the feasibility of eliminating PFAS from products. Some manufacturers argue that there are no suitable alternatives available that meet the performance requirements of certain products, particularly in firefighting materials. Opponents of the bill fear that strict regulations may lead to increased costs and the potential loss of certain product functionalities, impacting both industries and consumers. However, proponents argue that the long-term health benefits of eliminating PFAS justify the regulatory changes.