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Bill

A 6013

Prohibits sale of cosmetic products and personal care products containing 1,4-dioxane.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Linda Carter and 1 co-sponsor

New Jersey bill prohibits sale of cosmetics and personal care products containing suspected carcinogen 1,4-dioxane, requiring industry reformulation.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Consumer Affairs Committee
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Bill Summary · A 6013

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 6013 would prohibit the sale of cosmetic and personal care products containing 1,4-dioxane in New Jersey. The bill creates a statewide ban on this chemical compound, which is commonly found in shampoos, soaps, and other consumer products. Violators would face penalties under New Jersey's consumer protection laws.

Why is this important

1,4-dioxane is a suspected carcinogen classified as a likely human carcinogen by the EPA, though it is not intentionally added to products—rather, it forms as a byproduct during manufacturing. Consumers may unknowingly expose themselves to this chemical through daily use of common products. This bill would make New Jersey one of several states implementing restrictions on the chemical, potentially influencing industry reformulation practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Manufacturing feasibility and costs: Companies may argue that reformulating products to eliminate 1,4-dioxane requires significant research and investment, potentially increasing consumer prices or limiting product availability
  • Federal vs. state regulatory authority: The FDA regulates cosmetics at the federal level; a state-level ban creates compliance complexity for national manufacturers and raises questions about whether state-by-state restrictions are the most efficient approach
  • Scientific certainty debate: While the EPA classifies 1,4-dioxane as a likely carcinogen, some industry groups may contend the evidence is not conclusive enough to warrant a sales prohibition, especially given low exposure levels in typical use

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

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