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HB 1112

PFAS Chemicals - Civil Actions and Prohibition on Consumer Product Sales

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Lorig Charkoudian and 2 co-sponsors

Maryland bill bans PFAS consumer products and enables lawsuits for exposure damages, targeting persistent chemicals linked to health risks found in packaging and firefighting foams.

Hearing 3/05 at 3:00 p.m. (Judiciary)
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Bill Summary · HB 1112

Legislative bill overview

HB 1112 would prohibit the sale of consumer products containing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in Maryland and establish a private right of action allowing individuals to sue for damages related to PFAS exposure. The bill targets these synthetic chemicals commonly found in food packaging, non-stick cookware, stain-resistant textiles, and aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF).

Why is this important

PFAS chemicals are persistent environmental contaminants linked to health concerns including liver damage, thyroid disease, and immune system suppression. Maryland residents have documented PFAS contamination in drinking water supplies, particularly near military installations and airports where AFFF is used. This bill addresses both prevention of future exposure and accountability for past contamination.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: Manufacturers and retailers would face significant compliance costs identifying and removing PFAS-containing products; enforcement mechanisms remain unclear
  • Product availability: Restricting PFAS could reduce consumer product choices and may increase prices for alternative formulations, particularly affecting lower-income households
  • Liability exposure: Creating a private right of action could expose manufacturers, retailers, and even governmental entities to extensive litigation with uncertain causation standards, potentially leading to defensive business practices
  • Preemption concerns: Federal regulatory authority over PFAS is evolving; state-level prohibition may conflict with future federal standards or interstate commerce
  • Definition scope: "PFAS" encompasses thousands of chemicals; the bill's definition and exemption thresholds will determine practical scope

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

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