Maine considers joining small group of states that ban chemicals in cosmetics
Maine is contemplating becoming one of the few states in the US to ban certain chemicals in cosmetics, according to a bill put forward by Democratic lawmaker Rep. Sophie Warren. The proposed Safe Cosmetics Act aims to restrict the use of harmful substances in cosmetic products and aligns Maine with similar laws in Oregon, California, Washington, and Maryland. Warren has narrowed down the list of restricted chemicals from 11 categories to four, a move that has garnered industry support. The bill comes after Maine’s pioneering legislation requiring companies to disclose the presence of PFAS, or forever chemicals, in their products.
The revised list of chemicals in the bill includes various heavy metals, formaldehyde, and other substances that exceed a predetermined limit for reliable measurement. Previous studies have linked the presence of these chemicals, such as lead, to neurological damage in women and children. Additionally, formaldehyde found in hair dyes and straighteners has been associated with an increased risk of cancer. Warren highlighted that the European Union and over 40 countries have already banned many of these chemicals that are still permitted in US cosmetics.
To gain industry support, Warren’s bill is not set to take effect until 2027. This move has been welcomed by the Personal Care Products Council, representing 600 cosmetics companies. However, the industry group, along with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, has requested further clarifications to ensure the bill does not conflict with other state laws or federal regulations on cosmetics recently approved by President Joe Biden.
Maine is considering adopting California and Maryland’s approach of listing indexing codes alongside the names of banned chemicals. Andrew Hackman, a lobbyist for the Personal Care Products Council, believes this would provide greater specificity throughout the supply chain.
Warren’s bill will return to the Environment and Natural Resources Committee next week for further debate and potential amendments in a Tuesday work session.
Maine’s move to join the states banning certain chemicals in cosmetics reflects growing concerns about the potential harmful effects of these substances. The proposed legislation aims to safeguard consumers, particularly women and children, from the health risks associated with exposure to such chemicals. By aligning with other states and international regulations, Maine seeks to establish a more stringent framework for cosmetics safety.
It remains to be seen how the bill will evolve in response to industry requests and concerns about consistency with existing laws. Nonetheless, this development signals a step forward in prioritizing consumer protection and mirroring international best practices in the cosmetics industry.
