The state of Maryland introduced a law that restricts perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in various consumer products. This prohibition of PFAS will become effective on 1 January 2024.

On 21 April 2022, Maryland’s Governor signed bill HB 275 (SB 273) –Environment – PFAS Chemicals – Prohibitions and Requirements (George “Walter” Taylor Act) into law which regulates several consumer products containing perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

The law defines "PFAS chemicals" as a class of fluorinated organic chemicals, including perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, that are used in fire-fighting products, fire-fighting apparatus, food packaging, rugs, and carpets, and that contains at least one fully fluorinated carbon atom.

The new law prohibits:

● The manufacture, sale, or distribution in Maryland on or after January 1, 2024, of certain rugs or carpets (second-hand rugs and carpets are exempted).

● On or after January 1, 2024, a manufacturer or distributor is prohibited from producing, selling, or distributing specific food packaging meant for direct food contact in Maryland.

● The use, production, or willful sale or distribution of Class B firefighting foam in Maryland on or after January 1, 2024, which contains PFAS chemicals purposefully added.

Additionally, according to the law, sellers of personal protective equipment (PPE) for firefighters that contains PFAS must inform customers in writing at the point of sale that the PPE contains PFAS and why it does. The notification must be kept for at least three years following the sale date by both the seller and the buyer of PPE including PFAS. Manufacturers are required to submit a certificate of compliance (CoC) to the department within 30 days of the agency's request for food packaging, rugs, and carpets.

Reference: https://mde.maryland.gov/PublicHealth/Pages/PFAS-Landing-Page.aspx


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