Vermont Senate advances H238 to phase out PFAS in cleaning products and dental floss
May 20, 2025 | SENATE, Committees, Legislative , Vermont
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The Vermont Senate has taken a significant step towards public health and environmental safety by advancing a bill aimed at phasing out consumer products containing harmful perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). During the Senate session on May 20, 2025, the Health and Welfare Committee reported that the bill, H.238, should pass, marking a continuation of Vermont's efforts to eliminate these toxic chemicals from everyday products.
PFAS, often referred to as "forever chemicals," are linked to serious health issues, including elevated cholesterol levels, reduced vaccine efficacy, and various cancers. The new legislation builds on previous efforts, notably Act 131, which banned PFAS in products like artificial turf and cookware. H.238 expands this initiative by prohibiting PFAS in additional consumer items, including cleaning products, dental floss, and fluorine-treated containers.
The bill introduces a new subchapter dedicated to PFAS regulations, reflecting the growing concern over these substances. It mandates that the Agency of Natural Resources report back to the General Assembly on how other states are managing PFAS regulations, ensuring Vermont remains proactive in its approach.
Another critical aspect of the bill is its focus on personal protective equipment (PPE) for firefighters. The legislation will require manufacturers to notify buyers if their PPE contains PFAS and will ultimately ban such equipment by 2029. This decision was influenced by input from both volunteer and professional firefighters, highlighting the community's commitment to safeguarding public health.
In addition to these measures, the bill includes provisions for reducing PFAS levels in textiles and outdoor apparel, with specific deadlines for compliance. The Senate's unanimous support for the bill underscores a collective recognition of the urgent need to protect residents from the dangers posed by PFAS.
As Vermont moves forward with this legislation, the implications for public health and environmental safety are profound. The commitment to phasing out PFAS not only addresses immediate health concerns but also aligns with broader community goals of sustainability and safety. The next steps will involve monitoring the implementation of these regulations and ensuring that the state continues to lead in the fight against toxic chemicals in consumer products.
PFAS, often referred to as "forever chemicals," are linked to serious health issues, including elevated cholesterol levels, reduced vaccine efficacy, and various cancers. The new legislation builds on previous efforts, notably Act 131, which banned PFAS in products like artificial turf and cookware. H.238 expands this initiative by prohibiting PFAS in additional consumer items, including cleaning products, dental floss, and fluorine-treated containers.
The bill introduces a new subchapter dedicated to PFAS regulations, reflecting the growing concern over these substances. It mandates that the Agency of Natural Resources report back to the General Assembly on how other states are managing PFAS regulations, ensuring Vermont remains proactive in its approach.
Another critical aspect of the bill is its focus on personal protective equipment (PPE) for firefighters. The legislation will require manufacturers to notify buyers if their PPE contains PFAS and will ultimately ban such equipment by 2029. This decision was influenced by input from both volunteer and professional firefighters, highlighting the community's commitment to safeguarding public health.
In addition to these measures, the bill includes provisions for reducing PFAS levels in textiles and outdoor apparel, with specific deadlines for compliance. The Senate's unanimous support for the bill underscores a collective recognition of the urgent need to protect residents from the dangers posed by PFAS.
As Vermont moves forward with this legislation, the implications for public health and environmental safety are profound. The commitment to phasing out PFAS not only addresses immediate health concerns but also aligns with broader community goals of sustainability and safety. The next steps will involve monitoring the implementation of these regulations and ensuring that the state continues to lead in the fight against toxic chemicals in consumer products.
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