WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

A 1840

Prohibits use of paper receipts containing bisphenol-A or bisphenol-S; provides for phased-in prohibition on use of all paper receipts; authorizes continued use of electronic receipts.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Clinton Calabrese and 2 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill prohibits BPA/BPS in thermal receipts, eventually bans all paper receipts, allowing electronic receipts as replacement to reduce chemical exposure.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Environment, Natural Resources, and Solid Waste Committee
#consumeraff #environment #hazsubstanc
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 1840

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 1840 would prohibit the use of thermal paper receipts containing bisphenol-A (BPA) or bisphenol-S (BPS) in New Jersey, with a pathway toward eliminating all paper receipts entirely. The bill explicitly permits continued use of electronic receipts as an alternative. This represents a phased approach to reducing chemical exposure from a ubiquitous consumer product.

Why is this important

BPA and BPS are endocrine-disrupting chemicals that leach from thermal receipt paper into human skin and the environment, with particular concern for pregnant women, infants, and workers handling receipts frequently. Receipts are a significant source of BPA/BPS exposure—studies show thermal paper contains 250-1000 times more BPA than food packaging. This bill directly addresses a controllable exposure pathway while pushing the retail sector toward digital alternatives.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: Retailers, especially small businesses, may face costs replacing receipt systems and training staff; the timeline and transition support mechanisms aren't detailed in the bill summary
  • Completeness of the phaseout: A full paper receipt ban could disadvantage elderly consumers and those without digital access; the bill doesn't clarify accommodation measures for vulnerable populations
  • Market readiness: Requiring widespread adoption of electronic receipts assumes adequate digital infrastructure and consumer acceptance; some consumers actively prefer paper for record-keeping and warranty documentation

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

Sign in to ask a question.