A number of new laws will go into effect in California on Jan. 1, that will protect us from chemicals and plastics.
AB 2672 (Muratsuchi, 2020) Removing toxic chemicals from cosmetics – The Toxic Free Cosmetics Act bans 24 of the most toxic ingredients found in cosmetics and personal care products, including mercury and formaldehyde. These chemicals ought to be banned from consumer products in the U.S. and are banned in most of Europe. Now at least Californians will be protected from these harmful chemicals.
AB 2771 (Friedman, 2022) Removing toxic “forever chemicals” from personal care products – This law prohibits companies from adding harmful PFAS or “forever” chemicals to cosmetics and personal care products. The PFAS chemicals have been linked to kidney and liver disease, immune system suppression, birth defects, and even cancer. They are referred to as “forever chemicals” because they are nearly impossible to remove from the environment.
AB 1817 (Ting, 2022) Getting toxic “forever chemicals” out of clothes – Why manufacturers put PFAS in our clothing is a very good question. PFAS are used in clothing to make it more water, stain, and oil repellent, and to provide thermal stability and durability. However, when we wash our clothes that has PFAS in it, these toxins can get into our environment and waterways. This law bans the sale of clothes, outdoor gear and other textiles containing toxic PFAS “forever chemicals.”
AB 2208 (Kalra, 2022) Protecting consumers from toxic light bulbs – Did you know that fluorescent lamps contain mercury? Thati is a powerful toxin that can cause permanent damage to the central nervous system. Exposure to mercury is especially dangerous to our children. This law will prevent specific fluorescent lamps which may contain mercury from being sold in California.
SB 1046 (Eggman, 2022) Banning plastic produce bags – We all use plastic produce bags when we buy produce at the store. But plastic lasts forever and pollutes our waterways and environment. This law will finally ban the plastic produce bag. Note that Ralphs is already using compostable plastic produce bags. We have not seen those at other stores yet but they are coming by Jan. 1.
