Relative to chemicals in food packaging

This bill prohibits the manufacture, sale, and distribution of food packaging that contains intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Massachusetts. Manufacturers are required to provide a certificate of compliance to purchasers, confirming that their packaging meets these requirements. This certificate must be kept on file and made available upon request. The prohibition begins on January 1, 2027, and the compliance certification requirements take effect 90 days after the bill's enactment.

MA S1588 is a senate bill in the Massachusetts 194th General Court, sponsored by Michael Moore (D), currently “Introduced” since February 27, 2025.

We track 6,364 Massachusetts bills this session, 82 of them sponsored by Michael Moore.

Supporters praise the bill for protecting public health by banning hazardous PFAS chemicals in food packaging. It promotes safer consumer products and holds manufacturers accountable through compliance certifications. The phased implementation gives businesses time to adjust their practices, ensuring a smooth transition without disrupting the market.

Critics argue that the bill could increase costs for businesses as they reformulate packaging products, potentially passing expenses onto consumers. They also express concerns about the regulatory burden imposed by the requirement to maintain compliance certificates, viewing it as an additional layer of bureaucratic oversight that could complicate operations.