A bipartisan initiative in the Pennsylvania House is aiming to eliminate so-called “forever chemicals” from everyday products. Lawmakers are raising alarms about the long-term health risks associated with routine exposure to these substances, which are commonly found in a variety of consumer goods.
State Representative Greg Scott, a Democrat from Montgomery County, introduced legislation this week designed to prohibit the use of PFAS—per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—in cosmetics, dental floss, children’s products, and menstrual products. The focus of House Bill 2145 is on items that have frequent, direct contact with skin or the body.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals known for their persistence in both the environment and the human body. Scientific studies have linked these substances to serious health issues, including cancer, immune system suppression, pregnancy-related hypertension, and reduced fertility. They are often used by manufacturers for their water, oil, and stain-repellent properties.
Scott emphasized that public awareness of PFAS has largely revolved around contaminated drinking water, particularly near airports and military bases where firefighting foams have leached into groundwater. He highlighted that these chemicals are much more widespread than commonly perceived.
“These products are used on the face, in the mouth, or by babies and toddlers exploring the world,” Scott stated. “Every time a person uses one of these products, they’re exposed. Over a lifetime, that adds up.”
The bill has garnered support from both sides of the political aisle. Republican Representative Natalie Mihalek, who represents Allegheny and Washington counties, noted that consumers often lack the ability to avoid PFAS on their own. “Forever chemicals got their name for a reason,” Mihalek remarked, stressing the need for decisive action rather than merely issuing warnings as concerns about chemicals in food, pesticides, and household items grow.
In addition to health risks, lawmakers have pointed to environmental consequences. Products containing PFAS disposed of in landfills can break down over time, leading to groundwater contamination, which poses a threat to nearby drinking water supplies.
House Bill 2145 seeks to ban the use of PFAS in the manufacturing of the specified products while allowing a transition period for manufacturers to comply. Supporters of the bill argue that it strikes a balance between addressing public health concerns and providing a practical timeline for industry adaptation.
As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will test Pennsylvania’s willingness to act on the scrutiny surrounding “forever chemicals” that is intensifying across the country. The outcome will be closely watched as more states consider similar measures to protect public health and the environment.
