California’s Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act has been passed by the state’s Assembly with a unanimous vote.
The AB 2762 bill, if passed, will ban the use of 12 ingredients in cosmetics across the US state including dibutyl phthalate, diethylhexyl phthalate, formaldehyde and mercury.
The bill will now go to the Appropriations Committee for revision and could be introduced by 1 January 2022.
“No one knowingly wants to use face powder contaminated with asbestos, lipstick that contains lead, or baby shampoo with formaldehyde,” said the bill’s author.
“AB 2762 would clarify in statute that cosmetics containing some of the most well-known carcinogens, reproductive toxicants and endocrine disruptors are adulterated cosmetics, and cannot be sold in the state, protecting Californians against harmful chemicals in cosmetic products they use every day.”
However, the bill’s introduction has caused controversy throughout the sector.
Last year, when the bill was first introduced it called for the ban of 20 ‘unadulterated’ cosmetic ingredients and received fierce opposition.
The American Chemistry Council, California Chamber of Commerce, Fragrance Creators Association, Household and Commercial Products Association, and the Personal Care Products Council all opposed the bill and it was stalled without enough votes to move to the Assembly Health Committee.