20-05-2025
Vermont Senate backs expanded ban on ‘forever chemicals'
Montpelier, VT – The Vermont Senate is set to advance a House bill that would phase out and eventually ban ban toxic perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, in more consumer products, including dental floss and cleaning products.
The Senate expanded the bill, H.238, by adding a ban on PFAS in firefighting gear beginning in 2029.
PFAS are a group of some 15,000 chemicals that have been around for decades and have now spread into the nation's air, water and soil. PFAS accumulates in the body, and health experts say low doses of the chemicals can build up in the body over time, so even small amounts are a problem.
According to the Vermont Department of Health, exposure to PFAS can lead to reproductive and developmental disorders, certain types of cancer and other serious health problems.
A year ago, Vermont lawmakers approved a ban on PFAS in a slew of consumer products, including cribs, cosmetics, cookware and products aimed at children under 12, including electronic games. That law will take effect in July 2026.
'Reducing and eliminating PFAS in consumer goods and the environment protects personal and public health,' said Senator Virginia Lyons, chair of the Senate Health and Welfare Committee. 'Removing PFAS from products including dental floss, cleaning products, firefighting equipment, and textiles limits exposures that could lead to cancer, lower antibody response to vaccines, or negative child development outcomes.'
Last week, the Environmental Protection Agency announced plans to weaken limits on some 'forever chemicals' in drinking water that were finalized last year, while maintaining standards for two common ones.
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