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Bill

A 1845

Requires all personal audio players distributed in New Jersey to contain warning about volume and hearing loss.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Shama Haider

New Jersey would require warning labels on personal audio devices about hearing loss risks from high-volume listening to protect consumer health.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Consumer Affairs Committee
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Bill Summary · A 1845

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 1845 mandates that all personal audio players sold or distributed in New Jersey must include a warning label about the risks of hearing loss from high-volume listening. The requirement applies to devices like headphones, earbuds, and portable music players at the point of sale or distribution.

Why is this important

Hearing damage from personal audio devices is a documented public health concern, particularly among younger users who may not recognize cumulative damage risks. Warning labels can increase consumer awareness and encourage safer listening habits, potentially reducing preventable hearing loss cases.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and enforceability: Determining what qualifies as a "personal audio player" (phones? smartwatches?) and how to enforce requirements on out-of-state retailers and online sales
  • Effectiveness questions: Debate over whether warning labels meaningfully change consumer behavior or are simply ignored like other product warnings
  • Economic burden: Manufacturers may argue compliance costs outweigh public health benefits, particularly for smaller companies, and question why New Jersey alone should impose this requirement

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

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