#Protecting Consumers
Join our campaign in support of S. 820. This bill would add the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to the list of agencies required to participate in the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) interagency working group that was established in the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 to coordinate federal activities related to PFAS.
Policy Brief
Introduction
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are harmful human-made chemicals found in a wide range of consumer products, including water-resistant clothing, non-stick cookware, cleaning supplies, and even dental floss. These "Forever Chemicals" do not break down easily due to their strong carbon-fluorine bonds, leading to their accumulation in the environment and human body. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to serious health risks, including cancer, liver and kidney damage, and developmental issues. Addressing PFAS contamination requires a coordinated federal effort to ensure consumer protection and public safety.
The Protecting Consumers from PFAS Act aims to strengthen the federal response to PFAS contamination by requiring the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to participate in the PFAS Interagency Working Group, a coalition of federal agencies working to mitigate PFAS risks. The bill ensures that consumer protection is a key focus in federal efforts to research, regulate, and remediate PFAS contamination.
Issues the bill addresses:
Enhanced Coordination and Consumer Protection:
Requires the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to be an official member of the PFAS Interagency Working Group, ensuring consumer product safety is a priority in federal PFAS research and regulation.
Strengthens federal collaboration to develop safer alternatives to PFAS-containing consumer products.
Increases transparency and coordination in identifying PFAS risks in household goods and other consumer products.
Research and Remediation Efforts:
Supports research into PFAS-free alternatives for consumer products.
Helps determine best practices for removing PFAS from products and the environment.
Improves public awareness and data-sharing regarding PFAS exposure through everyday items.
Policy Implications:
Public Health and Safety: The bill ensures that consumer protection is central to federal PFAS policies, reducing public exposure to harmful chemicals in everyday products.
Environmental Impact: By including CPSC in federal coordination efforts, the bill promotes sustainable product innovation and reduces the environmental burden of PFAS contamination.
Consumer Awareness and Regulation: Strengthened oversight will lead to better labeling, regulation, and eventual phase-out of PFAS in consumer goods, empowering consumers to make informed choices.
Conclusion
The Protecting Consumers from PFAS Act is a crucial step in safeguarding public health and consumer safety. By mandating the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s involvement in the PFAS Interagency Working Group, the bill enhances federal coordination, research, and regulation of PFAS in everyday products. This legislative action will help reduce PFAS exposure, promote safer alternatives, and ensure that consumer protection remains a key focus in the fight against PFAS contamination.
*Sample Call Script:
Hello, my name is _____ from _______. I’m calling on behalf of SayNoToPFAS, a student-led organization dedicated to ending the use of PFAS in everyday products, to express my strong support for the Protecting Consumers from PFAS Act. This bill will help strengthen federal efforts to regulate PFAS in consumer products by requiring the Consumer Product Safety Commission to be an official part of the PFAS Interagency Working Group. By improving coordination, research, and oversight, this legislation will better protect consumers from these harmful chemicals. I urge [Representative/Senator/Office’s Name] to support this bill and help ensure that public health and safety remain a top priority. Thank you for your time.
