Cleaning Product Ingredient Communication Act
The introduction of HB 5978 is expected to standardize labeling practices across the nation, potentially affecting state laws that already exist regarding cleaning product disclosures. It would require manufacturers to list all intentionally added ingredients unless classified as confidential business information, balancing consumer rights to know with corporate confidentiality. For products manufactured before the effective date of the act, this bill provides a grace period during which products can remain compliant by displaying certain manufacturing dates or codes.
House Bill 5978, titled the 'Cleaning Product Ingredient Communication Act', is designed to amend the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act by establishing federal standards for ingredient disclosure in cleaning products. The bill aims to enhance transparency in the cleaning product industry by mandating that manufacturers disclose intentionally added ingredients on product labels. This requirement includes both chemical names and the presence of any fragrance allergens above a set concentration, thereby providing consumers with better information regarding the products they use in their homes.
Noteworthy contention surrounding this bill includes concerns from manufacturers regarding the implications of disclosing proprietary formulations. While supporters argue that clearer labeling fosters consumer trust and safety, some industry representatives fear that stringent disclosure requirements could expose trade secrets and stifle innovation. Additionally, this bill's preemption of state laws might lead to resistance from states with existing regulations that are more stringent than those proposed at the federal level.