An act to amend Sections 42361 and 42362 of the Public Resources Code, relating to solid waste.
Impact
If enacted, AB 823 will strengthen California's stance against the pollution caused by plastics in personal care products and will further tighten regulations surrounding solid waste management. The bill imposes civil penalties for violations, which can amount up to $2,500 per day. This is part of a broader strategy to reduce plastic waste in the environment, reflecting increased public concern over the environmental and health impacts of microplastics. The bill's phased implementation allows retailers time to adjust and mitigate potential financial impacts regarding their existing stock of products containing these materials.
Summary
Assembly Bill 823, introduced by Assembly Member Boerner and co-authored by Senator Gonzalez, aims to amend the existing Plastic Microbeads Nuisance Prevention Law in California. The bill seeks to prohibit the sale and distribution of personal care products containing plastic microbeads used for exfoliating or cleansing in rinse-off products, such as toothpaste. Additionally, starting January 1, 2029, it will ban personal care products containing plastic glitter and any non-rinse-off cleaning products containing plastic microbeads above one part per million by weight. The existing exemption for products with less than one part per million will remain until the enactment of these changes.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding AB 823 appears to be generally positive, especially among environmental advocacy groups and public health proponents. Advocates argue that eliminating plastic microbeads and glitter from consumer products is crucial to protect waterways and marine life from plastic pollution. However, some industry stakeholders express concerns about the impact of these regulations on product formulation and potential increase in costs for alternative ingredients, indicating ongoing debates about balancing environmental priorities with economic considerations.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the efficacy of plastic alternatives in the cosmetic industry and the readiness of manufacturers to comply with the new regulations. Some opponents highlight that the bill's restrictions could lead to unintended consequences, such as limiting consumer choice and potentially increasing prices for environmentally friendly options. Furthermore, discussions about appropriate timelines for the phased implementation raise questions of feasibility for retailers and manufacturers, contributing to the ongoing dialogue regarding legislative action on environmental issues.
An act to add amend Section 12405 to 12203 of the Public Contract Code, and to amend Sections 42920 and 42926 of the Public Resources Code, relating to solid waste.
Water supply: quality and standards; testing and reporting of the amount of microplastics in public drinking water supplies; require. Amends sec. 5 of 1976 PA 399 (MCL 325.1005) & adds sec. 6a.
Trade: consumer goods and services; personal care products containing plastic microbeads; prohibit manufacture and acceptance for sale. Amends 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.101 - 324.90106) by adding subpt. 3 to pt. 147.
Trade: consumer goods and services; personal care products containing plastic microbeads; prohibit manufacture and acceptance for sale. Amends 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.101 - 324.90106) by adding subpt. 3 to pt. 147.
Water supply: quality and standards; testing and reporting of the amount of microplastics in public drinking water supplies; require. Amends sec. 5 of 1976 PA 399 (MCL 325.1005) & adds sec. 6a.
Encouraging The Adoption Of Recommendations From The United Nations Global Plastics Treaty And Rapa Nui Summit Declaration To Address Climate Justice And Sustainable Development.