SPRINGFIELD — In response to growing research about the long-term health risks posed by PFAS — commonly known as “forever chemicals” — State Senator Julie Morrison is working to eliminate their use within everyday products sold in Illinois.

To reduce Illinoisans’ exposure to these chemicals, House Bill 2516 would ban intentionally added PFAS from seven categories of products sold and distributed in the state, including cookware, cosmetics, dental floss, children’s items, menstrual products, intimate apparel and food packaging. Morrison’s bill prioritizes products where PFAS exposure is likely to be frequent or prolonged, especially for vulnerable populations like children, and sets a 2032 implementation date to give manufacturers time to phase out their use.

“As we learn more about the risks associated with these chemicals, now is the time to take action to prevent long-term harm,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This legislation can give people peace of mind that the items they rely on aren’t compromising their health.”

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoradlkyl substances, are a type of synthetic chemicals designed for oil- and water-resistant purposes. Once released into the environment or absorbed by our body, PFAS do not break down easily and can accumulate over time. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to serious health issues including cancer, hormone disruption, immune system damage and developmental problems in children.

“Illinois has already taken steps to limit exposure to these harsh chemicals in products like firefighting foam,” said Morrison. “We are poised to build on this progress and provide people with safer versions of the products they use every day.”

House Bill 2516 passed the Senate Environment and Conservation Committee on Thursday.

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