Bill > H7110

This bill, titled "The Personal Hygiene Product Safety and Toxic Metal Removal Act of 2026," establishes a new chapter in Rhode Island law to protect public health by significantly reducing the presence of harmful metals in personal hygiene and care products, such as cosmetics and feminine hygiene items. It defines "detectable concentration" as any amount of a toxic metal above specific limits set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or other authorities, and identifies "toxic metals" as those deemed hazardous by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or similar bodies, including lead, cadmium, and arsenic. The bill prohibits personal hygiene products sold in the state from containing these toxic metals above strict limits, such as 0.1 parts per million (ppm) for lead and arsenic, and 0.05 ppm for cadmium, with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to determine limits for other harmful metals. Manufacturers will be required to conduct regular testing by accredited independent laboratories, report their findings to the Department of Business Regulation (DBR), and ensure their products meet these standards. The DBR will have enforcement authority, including the power to seize products, order recalls, and impose civil penalties of up to $250,000 per violation, with potential license suspension for repeat offenders. Additionally, products will need to be labeled to certify they meet federal safety standards for toxic metals, and an educational campaign will inform consumers about risks and product safety, while funding will be provided for research into safer alternatives. This comprehensive act is set to take effect on January 1, 2030, with manufacturers needing to comply with the concentration limits within 180 days thereafter.

Health and Social Services

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