A bipartisan effort within the Pennsylvania House is seeking to eliminate harmful “forever chemicals” from everyday products. Legislators warn that routine exposure to these substances may pose significant long-term health risks that often go unnoticed by consumers.
State Representative Greg Scott, a Democrat from Montgomery County, introduced legislation this week aimed at banning PFAS—per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—from a range of products including cosmetics, dental floss, children’s items, and menstrual products. The bill specifically targets items that have repeated, direct contact with the skin or body.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals known for their durability, as they do not break down easily in the environment or the human body. They have been linked to various health issues, including cancer, immune system suppression, pregnancy-related hypertension, and reduced fertility. These chemicals are commonly used by manufacturers to provide resistance to water, oil, and stains.
Scott emphasized that while public awareness of PFAS has largely focused on contaminated drinking water sources—particularly near airports and military bases where firefighting foams have infiltrated groundwater—the problem is much more widespread.
“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.”
House Bill 2145 has garnered bipartisan support, including from Republican Representative Natalie Mihalek, representing Allegheny and Washington County. Mihalek highlighted the difficulty consumers face in avoiding PFAS, stating, “Forever chemicals got their name for a reason,” and asserting that Pennsylvanians require tangible action rather than just ongoing warnings about chemical safety.
In addition to personal health concerns, lawmakers are also addressing the environmental impact of PFAS. Products containing these chemicals can degrade over time in landfills, potentially contaminating groundwater and posing risks to nearby drinking water supplies.
The proposed legislation would prohibit the use of PFAS in the manufacturing of the targeted products while allowing a transition period for manufacturers to comply. Proponents of the bill argue that it effectively balances public health needs with practical timelines for industry adaptation.
As the bill proceeds through the legislative process, it will test Pennsylvania’s responsiveness to growing scrutiny surrounding “forever chemicals.” The effectiveness of this initiative could set a precedent for similar measures across the nation as public concern about chemical safety continues to rise.
