Compliance Timeline: U.S. States, October 2024

The California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) announced this month that on 19 December 2024, it will hold a meeting to discuss the potential listing of vinyl acetate as a carcinogen. This listing will fall under the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, or Proposition 65.

Vinyl acetate, commonly used in the production of plastics and food-contact materials, is one of five chemicals under consideration. Businesses must provide clear warnings before exposing individuals to the chemical if listed. The meeting will take place in the Sierra Hearing Room in Sacramento, with options for remote participation via Zoom.

Proposition 65 requires the state to maintain an updated list of chemicals known to cause cancer, congenital disabilities, or reproductive harm. The Carcinogen Identification Committee (CIC), composed of experts appointed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, will review scientific evidence compiled by OEHHA staff and public comments submitted during the consultation period, which ended on 18 November 2024. If the OEHHA lists the chemical, it would require compliance with Proposition 65’s warning requirements within one year of listing.