• Washington’s Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act bans more chemicals of concern in beauty and personal care products than any other state or federal law 

• PFAS, lead, phthalates, formaldehyde-releasing agents among chemicals banned in new legislation

OLYMPIA, WA—Today, the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act (HB 1047)—sponsored by Washington State Representative Sharlett Mena (29th Legislative District)—was signed by Governor Inslee, making it the strongest law in the nation regulating cosmetics and personal care products. “You shouldn’t have to be a toxicologist to shop for personal care products. When products are on the shelf, we assume they are safe to use, but this is not always the case. In fact, Ecology found that many cosmetics contain toxic chemicals and that those with the highest concentrations are often marketed to women of color,” said Washington State Representative Sharlett Mena (D-Tacoma). “We regulate the use of toxics in other products, but the law allowed products that we apply to our bodies to use harmful chemicals. With this new law, we will no longer allow these harmful chemicals to be added to personal care products and sold to unsuspecting people.” Washington continues its leadership to regulate dangerous chemicals in everyday products and begins to address the disproportionate impact to people of color with this new law. It bans PFAS, lead, phthalates, formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers, and other harmful chemicals; requires assessment of chemicals that can  impact vulnerable populations; and, creates incentives for safer products. Bans take effect in 2025, except for formaldehyde releasers that have a phased-in approach beginning in 2026. ....