A bill sponsored by Assembly members Jessica Ramirez (D-32) and Will Sampson (D-31) to ban “forever chemicals” in clothing cleared the full state Assembly last week.
“Forever chemicals are everywhere. In the water we drink, the makeup and hair products we use, and the clothes we wear – and they are causing long-term health problems due to this constant exposure,” Ramirez said in a statement.
“This bill is one step of what must be a multistep process to remove these toxic materials from our everyday consumption and protect our residents here in New Jersey.”
Bill B-5260 would ban the use of PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” in clothing sold, manufactured, or distributed in New Jersey.
The legislation was passed out of the full Assembly on June 30th by a vote of 55-19(5), marking a key step forward in addressing widespread exposure to these toxic substances.
Sampson was also a primary sponsor, while Assembly members David Bailey Jr. (D-3), Lisa Swain, and Chris Tully (both D-38) signed on as co-sponsors.
The legislation is supported by multiple environmental advocacy groups, including Clean Water Action.
“Clean Water Action is excited to continue the work that has been started by other states, such as New York, Minnesota, and others, with A5260,” exclaimed Molly Cleary, an environmental advocate from the organization.
“We are proud to support this legislation along with the myriad of PFAS limiting/banning bills that have been taking the New Jersey Legislature by storm. Together, we can and will keep New Jerseyans safe from these ‘Forever Chemicals.'”
PFAS chemicals are known for their persistence in the environment and the human body, with links to serious health issues including cancer, reproductive harm, and immune system disruption.