AB 2761 (Hart & Lowenthal) Reducing Toxics in Packaging Act

OVERVIEW

AB 2761 prohibits packaging that contains per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) / polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC).

ISSUE

PFAS and PVC/ PVDC are “worst of the worst” forms of plastic and are preventing California achieving its recycling and toxicity goals. Many of the country's leading consumer brands have already committed to eliminating their use of these toxic materials.

PFAS are considered “forever chemicals” because they are highly persistent, toxic chemicals that are linked to severe health problems, including cancer, hormone disruption, kidney and liver damage, thyroid disease, developmental harm, and immune system disruption, including interference with vaccine efficacy.

PVC / PVDC is not recyclable and is incredibly toxic, resulting in harmful exposures at every stage of its lifecycle. PVC / PVDC production involves numerous toxic chemicals, including asbestos, PFAS, ethylene dichloride, and vinyl chloride. PVC / PVDC often includes harmful additives, such as heavy metals, bisphenols, phthalates, and flame retardants[1]. Since PVC / PVDC packaging is unrecyclable, PVC / PVDC ends up mixed in with other garbage and is either incinerated, which produces carcinogenic and persistent dioxins and furans, or sent to landfills, which often release harmful chemicals into the air and groundwater, both of which disproportionately impact environmental justice communities.  

Position: Co-sponsored by Breast Cancer Prevention Partners, Californians Against Waste, Clean Water Action & Natural Resources Defense Council
Contact: Nick Lapis & Krystal Raynes

Status: Referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee
Current language, analysis, and votes:  AB 2761