U.S. Senate Introduces Bill to Ban Procurement of Products Containing PFAS

The U.S. Senate introduced the PFAS-Free Procurement Act of 2023, a bill that would prohibit the procurement of certain items containing perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) or perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and prioritize the procurement of products not containing PFAS.

PFOA and PFOS are a type of chemical called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that have been linked to a variety of health problems, including cancer, thyroid disease, and reproductive problems. They are found in a wide range of consumer products, including cookware, utensils, carpets, and furniture.

“The PFAS-Free Procurement Act of 2023 is an important step towards protecting public health from the harmful effects of PFAS,” said Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), the bill’s sponsor. “By banning the procurement of certain items containing PFAS, we can ensure that our government is not contributing to the spread of these harmful chemicals.”

The bill would prohibit the head of an executive agency from entering into a contract for the procurement of cookware, utensils, carpets, or furniture that contain PFOS or PFOA, beginning on October 1, 2025. It would also require the head of an executive agency to prioritize the procurement of products, where available, that do not contain PFAS.

“The science is clear that PFAS are harmful to our health,” said Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), a cosponsor of the bill. “I am proud to support this legislation to reduce our exposure to these chemicals.”

Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS), another cosponsor of the bill, added, “The PFAS-Free Procurement Act of 2023 is a critical measure to protect public health and the environment from the harmful effects of PFAS. I am committed to taking action to reduce our exposure to these chemicals.”

The bill is supported by a broad coalition of environmental and health advocates, including the Environmental Working Group, the National Resources Defense Council, and the American Cancer Society.

“The PFAS-Free Procurement Act of 2023 is a common-sense solution that will help to reduce our exposure to PFAS,” said Environmental Working Group President Erik D. Olson. “We applaud Senator Peters and his colleagues for introducing this important legislation.”

The bill is currently pending in the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.

Link to S.2283 - PFAS-Free Procurement Act of 2023.