The N.J. Senate passed legislation sponsored by state Sens. Linda Greenstein and Shirley Turner, which would ban the intentional addition of perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances to most apparel items. The bill passed in a 38-0 vote.
“PFAS are known as ‘forever chemicals’ for a reason; once they enter our environment, they are unable to break down over time naturally,” said Greenstein (D-Mercer/Middlesex).
“These substances have been linked to serious health risks and are now found in our water, soil, and even in the blood of people around the world. By prohibiting the intentional addition of PFAS in clothing, we are building off the success of the ‘Protecting Against Forever Chemicals Act’ and taking another important step to reduce everyday exposure and protect the long-term health of our residents.”
PFAS are applied to clothes, shoes, and accessories such as purses and backpacks to make them more water and stain resistant while keeping the fabric breathable.
According to the bill, S-1281, no person would be permitted to sell, manufacture, or distribute any apparel containing intentionally added PFAS, beginning two years after the bill’s effective date.
Any violations of the provision in the bill would be considered unlawful under the “Protecting Against Forever Chemicals Act,” and the violator would be subject to all remedies and penalties available pursuant to that act, which may include the issuance of an administrative enforcement order, civil action in Superior Court, or civil penalties between $1,000 and $20,000 for each violation.
“Pollution from PFAS has become a widespread environmental and public health concern, and everyday consumer products are one of the most common ways these chemicals continue to enter our communities,” said Turner (D-Mercer/Hunterdon). “With growing awareness of their dangerous effects, many clothing companies have already begun to transition away from PFAS. This legislation would give manufacturers time to fully phase them out while ensuring that New Jersey has clear standards in place to protect consumers from unnecessary exposure.”
The bill would define “apparel” to mean clothing items intended for regular wear or formal occasions, including undergarments, shirts, pants, skirts, dresses, overalls, bodysuits, costumes, vests, dancewear, suits, saris, scarves, tops, leggings, school uniforms, leisurewear, athletic wear, sports uniforms, everyday swimwear, formal wear, onesies, bibs, diapers, footwear, and everyday uniforms or work-wear, as well as outdoor apparel, including apparel designed for severe wet conditions.
“Apparel” would not include personal protection equipment or clothing items for exclusive use by the United States military. Additionally, it would not include equipment and protective apparel used for the safe operation of a motorcycle or off-highway vehicle.
Other states have moved forward toward prohibiting PFAS from apparel. California banned intentionally added PFAS in textiles starting January 2025. New York prohibits apparel with PFAS, except outdoor gear for severe wet conditions until 2028. Colorado is phasing out PFAS in outdoor clothing, requiring disclosure labels until a full ban in 2028.
