Bill > AB1148

This bill, known as the Safer Food Packaging Act of 2026, aims to protect public health by restricting certain chemicals in food packaging. Starting January 1, 2028, it will be illegal to manufacture, sell, or distribute food packaging that intentionally contains bisphenols or ortho-phthalates, which are chemicals that can have a functional or technical effect in the product. The bill also directs the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) to establish regulations for acceptable levels of bisphenols and ortho-phthalates that are not intentionally added, with restrictions on these substances to follow one year after those regulations are in place. Manufacturers will be required to keep records of any non-intentionally added bisphenols or ortho-phthalates in their packaging and make this information available to the DTSC. The bill allows for enforcement by the DTSC and the Attorney General, with penalties of up to $5,000 for a first violation and up to $10,000 for subsequent violations. The DTSC can also adopt stricter regulations if deemed necessary for public health or environmental protection, and funds from the Toxic Substances Control Account may be used for implementation.