Rhode IslandH77342026 Regular SessionHouse

AN ACT RELATING TO HEALTH AND SAFETY -- CONSUMER PFAS BAN ACT OF 2024 .

Sponsored By: Terri Cortvriend (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.

PFAS firefighting foam banned starting 2025

Beginning January 1, 2025, no one may use or train with Class B firefighting foam that has intentionally added PFAS, and makers may not make or sell it for use in Rhode Island. If federal law requires PFAS foam, users must report within five business days and fully contain and properly dispose of firewater and waste. Foam makers must warn Rhode Island sellers at least one year before restrictions and must recall and reimburse buyers by March 1, 2025, including safe transport, storage, and records. Terminals can get up to a one‑year exemption only if no PFAS‑free foam can control large tank fires, they quantify use, and prevent releases; terminals may aid other terminals in an emergency Class B fire. The state helps public agencies avoid buying PFAS foams. Foam makers face fines up to $5,000 for a first offense and up to $10,000 for repeat offenses.

PFAS phased out from products by 2027

Beginning January 1, 2027, making or selling covered consumer products with intentionally added PFAS is illegal in Rhode Island. Used items are allowed, and tiny, unavoidable PFAS traces in cosmetics are not a violation. Beginning January 1, 2029, artificial turf with PFAS cannot be sold, and outdoor apparel for severe wet conditions with PFAS must be labeled "Made with PFAS chemicals." The director can grant limited exemptions only when the product protects health or the environment, no feasible alternative exists, and no comparable non‑PFAS option is available at a reasonable cost, with renewals up to five years after consulting nearby states.

Stronger PFAS enforcement and coordination

If the state believes a product sold here has intentionally added PFAS, the director can order the maker to prove it does not within 30 days or notify sellers that it is banned. The department or attorney general can quickly seek court orders to enforce the law without proving irreparable harm, and the Providence County Superior Court can hear the case. Starting January 1, 2027, fines are up to $1,000 for a first violation and up to $5,000 for later ones. The department may join a multistate clearinghouse to track PFAS products and exemptions. The law takes effect upon passage, with the dates above controlling each rule.

Firefighting gear PFAS notices and 2027 ban

Starting January 1, 2025, sellers must give a written notice at sale if firefighting PPE contains PFAS and explain why it was added. Makers, sellers, and buyers must keep the notice for three years and give it to the department within 60 days if asked. Beginning January 1, 2027, making or selling firefighting PPE with intentionally added PFAS is illegal. The department helps governments prefer PFAS‑free gear. The department can also require a compliance certificate from foam or PPE makers within 30 days.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Terri Cortvriend
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

David A. Bennett
Democratic • House
Michelle E. McGaw
Democratic • House
June Speakman
Democratic • House
Tina L. Spears
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 69 • No: 3

House vote • 6/11/2026

CONSUMER PFAS BAN ACT OF 2024 PASSAGE