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HD 2849

An Act protecting wastewater and sewerage systems through the labeling of non-flushable wipes

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sean Garballey and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts requires non-flushable wipes to carry a Do Not Flush label and symbol by July 1, 2027, boosting awareness and reducing sewer clogs.

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Bill Summary · HD 2849

Summary: An Act protecting wastewater and sewerage systems through the labeling of non-flushable wipes (House Bill No. 2849)

Overview

This Massachusetts bill aims to curb sewer and wastewater system issues by mandating clear labeling on consumer wipes that are not intended to be flushed. It targets products commonly marketed as wipes that are petrochemical-derived and likely to be flushed, to reduce sewer clogs and environmental harm.

Key definitions (Section 330)

  • Covered entity: The manufacturer of a covered product sold or offered for sale in Massachusetts, including wholesalers, suppliers, or retailers responsible for labeling/packaging.
  • Covered product: A premoistened nonwoven disposable wipe used for baby care or diapering, or any wipe that is petrochemical-derived and likely to be flushed (e.g., baby wipes, bathroom cleaning wipes, disinfecting wipes, makeup/removal wipes, feminine hygiene wipes, adult incontinence wipes, etc.).
  • Label notice: The phrase “Do Not Flush” with a required minimum label size proportion on the principal display panel.
  • Principal display panel: The side of the package most likely to be seen by consumers at retail. Size calculations vary by packaging type (cylindrical, flexible film, or rigid/reusable tubs).
  • Symbol: A “Do Not Flush” symbol or a gender-equivalent version, aligned with industry guidelines.
  • High contrast: The symbol must be highly legible, with at least 70% contrast per a specified formula.

Labeling requirements (Section 331)

  • General requirement: Beginning July 1, 2027, covered products must be labeled clearly and conspicuously with the Do Not Flush symbol and label notice.
  • Packaging-specific requirements:
    • Cylindrical/near-cylindrical packaging (dispensing wipes):
    • Place the symbol and label on the principal display panel in a location viewable each time a wipe is dispensed; or
    • place on the principal display panel plus on the flip lid (symbol/label or both), with the flip lid option covering at least 8% of its surface if used.
    • Flexible film packaging (dispensing wipes):
    • Place the symbol on the principal display panel and dispensing side panel; place the label notice on either the principal display panel or the dispensing side panel in a prominent location each time a wipe is dispensed.
    • If the principal display panel is on the dispensing side, two symbols are not required.
    • Refillable tubs or rigid packaging: (text truncated in provided content; intended to apply similar visibility/placement standards)

Applicability and timeline

  • Who is affected: Manufacturers and other “covered entities” (wholesalers, suppliers, retailers) selling wipes in Massachusetts.
  • Effective timeline: Labeling requirements apply to products manufactured on or after July 1, 2027, giving entities lead time to implement labeling changes.

Federal-law considerations

  • Where applicable, the bill links labeling requirements to existing federal regulations (e.g., CPSC rules, FIFRA). If federal requirements dictate a larger label size, those federal sizes apply to the state requirements to the extent permitted by law.

Potential impact

  • Aims to reduce sewage blockages and maintenance costs by improving consumer awareness that certain wipes should not be flushed.
  • Increases labeling and packaging compliance requirements and potential cost for manufacturers and distributors.
  • May drive reformulation or repositioning of products marketed as flushable versus non-flushable.

Next steps for readers

  • Companies that manufacture or sell wipes should monitor regulatory developments, prepare labeling design options (including Do Not Flush symbol and 2% surface-area sizing), and plan compliance timelines for July 1, 2027.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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