Bill > A5330

Introduced Session

This bill prohibits the sale of non-flushable disposable wipes. Under the bill, it is an unlawful practice under the consumer fraud act, for a person to sell, offer for sale, or distribute for sale a non-flushable disposable wipe product. Non-flushable disposable wipes are cloth-like products intended for the personal cleansing of the human body. However, consumers may wrongly assume these products may be safely disposed of in the toilet. Non-flushable disposable wipes are typically made of synthetic materials that do not break down or disintegrate when submerged in water, even over a long period of time. This results in significant harm to sewage and septic systems, causing pipes, pumps, and water treatment systems to get clogged and require costly repairs. An unlawful practice under the consumer fraud act, P.L.1960, c.39 (C.56:8-1 et seq.), is punishable by a monetary penalty of not more than $10,000 for a first offense and not more than $20,000 for any subsequent offense. In addition, a violation can result in a cease and desist order issued by the Attorney General, the assessment of punitive damages, and the awarding of treble damages and costs to the injured.

Committee Categories

Herbert Conaway (D)*,  Angela Mcknight (D), 

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Consumer Affairs Committee (on 03/23/2023)

Official Document