PA House Committee Unanimously Reports Out Bipartisan Legislation To Ban PFAS 'Forever Chemicals' In Baby And Personal Care Products

On April 28, the House Consumer Protection, Technology & Utilities Committee unanimously reported out House Bill 2145 (Scott-D-Montgomery/Mihalek-R-Allegheny) that would ban the use of PFAS 'forever chemicals' to make baby and personal care products.

The bill would prohibit PFAS in products like diapers, lipstick, dental floss, menstrual products and cosmetics.

PFAS chemicals are called “forever chemicals” because they are nearly indestructible, building up in the human body over time and persisting in the environment, according to PennEnvironment. 

These toxic compounds are so widespread that nearly every American has them in their blood. 

PFAS exposure–even in small amounts over time– can cause significant health problems, including kidney cancer, thyroid disruption, immune suppression, reproductive issues and developmental issues.  

Despite this, baby products frequently contain PFAS, with high levels found in bibs, clothing and infant bedding. There is also evidence of PFAS in diapers and baby wipes. 

This is particularly concerning since infants developing bodies are uniquely vulnerable to PFAS impacts such as hormone disruption. 

PFAS are also frequently found in products that adults apply directly to our bodies, showing up in a large percentage of cosmetics, menstrual products and dental floss. 

“When changing a diaper or flossing their teeth, Pennsylvanians shouldn’t have to worry if the products they’ve brought home to care for themselves and their families are putting their health at risk," said Stephanie Wein, Clean Water And Conservation Advocate for PennEnvironment. 

"House Bill 2145 would be a powerful first step in protecting Pennsylvanians from toxic PFAS. PennEnvironment is glad to see the bipartisan support for phasing out these ‘forever chemicals’ out of these products and urge our leaders in Harrisburg to pass this legislation as quickly as possible.”

The bill was then Tabled, the usual practice of the House.

Click Here for the PennEnvironment announcement with additional resource links.

Rep. Danilo Burgos (D-Philadelphia) serves as Majority Chair of the House Consumer Protection, Technology & Utilities Committee and can be contacted by calling 717-72-2004 or click here to contact online.  Rep. Carl Metzgar (R-Somerset) serves as Minority Chair and can be contacted by calling 717-260-6432 or click here to contact online.

[Posted: April 29, 2026]  PA Environment Digest