Several States Seek to Ban Further Use of PFAS

Despite evidence of PFAS’ toxicity, chemical industry advocates claim the laws are going too far.

June 7, 2023

As reported by The Washington Post, 195 new bills have been introduced into various state legislatures this year in an effort to make more products free of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

According to the U.S. Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases (ATSDR), PFAS are man-made chemicals that have been widely used in industry and consumer products since the 1940s—including products that resist grease, water, and oil—and remain in the environment for a long time.

ATSDR reports that research involving humans suggests that high blood levels of certain PFAS might lead to a number of health concerns, including increased cholesterol levels, changes in liver enzymes, increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer, increased risk of high blood pressure in pregnant woman, and decreased vaccine response in children.

But, according to The Post, the American Chemistry Council contends that most PFAS—a group of more than 5,000 chemicals—do not pose a threat and believes banning or restricting all PFAS goes too far.

“We have strong concerns with overly broad state legislation that takes a one-size-fits-all approach to the regulation of these chemistries,” Robert Simon, American Chemistry Council vice president, told The Post. “Furthermore, a patchwork of conflicting state-based approaches could jeopardize access to important products.”

Since 2018, 24 states have voted to either ban or restrict the use of PFAS, The Post reports, with Minnesota being the latest to do so this May.

In 2022, Green Seal® decided to prohibit all PFAS, regardless of type, in any cleaning and personal care products certified by the organization. Read Green Seal Prohibits All PFAS in Cleaning and Personal Care Products to learn more about their decision.

Latest Articles

Safety First: Handling and Disposal of Biohazardous Waste in Restrooms
July 1, 2025 Elizabeth Christenson

Safety First: Handling and Disposal of Biohazardous Waste in Restrooms

July 1, 2025 CMM Staff

How to Find and Win Government Contracts

June 30, 2025 Shaun Tinholt

Ace School Floor Care

Sponsored Articles

Spartan
June 26, 2025 Sponsored by Spartan Chemical

Advocacy with a Purpose: People, Product, and Proper Training

June 23, 2025 Sponsored by Tennant

Where AI Meets Clean: Join the X6 ROVR™ Floor Cleaning Revolution

June 17, 2025 Sponsored by Sani Professional

Food Safety Made Simple: A Must-Have for Chefs, Grill Masters, and More!

Recent News

gavel

Judge Blocks Layoffs at HHS

Join a Making Safer Choices Focus Group to Promote a Safer Future

House Passes WIPPES Act