Minnesota Leads the Way in State-Level PFAS Regulations

As the federal government continues to develop and implement PFAS regulations, such as the EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulation and the TSCA Section 8(a)(7) PFAS Reporting and Recordkeeping Rule, some states are taking proactive steps to address these emerging contaminants. Minnesota, in particular, has emerged as a leader in state-level PFAS regulations, introducing a series of new laws that will have a significant impact on businesses operating in or selling to the state.

At GMG EnviroSafe, we understand that navigating this rapidly evolving regulatory landscape can be challenging. That's why we're here to guide you through Minnesota's new PFAS regulations and help you understand what these changes mean for your business.

Key PFAS Regulations in Minnesota

1. MN PFAS In Food Packaging Law: Effective January 1, 2024, this law prohibits the manufacturing, processing, selling, or distributing of food packaging materials and firefighting foam containing intentionally-added PFAS in Minnesota.
2. MN PFAS In Products Law (Amara's Law): Starting January 1, 2025, this law prohibits the manufacturing, processing, selling, or distributing of products with intentionally-added PFAS in 11 specific categories in Minnesota:some text
   • Carpets or rugs, cleaning products, cookware, cosmetics, dental floss, fabric treatments, juvenile products, menstruation products, textile furnishings, ski wax, and upholstered furniture
   • The prohibition also applies to certain types of packaging used with these products

These regulations affect both products manufactured in Minnesota and those sold in the state but manufactured elsewhere.

What This Means for Your Business

If your business operates in or sells to Minnesota, you may need to adjust your practices to ensure compliance with these new regulations. It's important to note that there are no exceptions for products in these categories, nor extensions to the timeline if no PFAS alternatives are available.

Steps to Take Now

1. Contact Your Suppliers: Request PFAS certifications for products you receive to determine if they contain intentionally-added PFAS.
2. Identify PFAS-Containing Products: Determine which of your products might contain PFAS, especially in the 11 categories listed under Amara's Law.
3. Seek Alternatives: Start researching and transitioning to PFAS-free alternatives for affected products to ensure compliance with the upcoming regulations.
4. Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the evolving PFAS regulations in Minnesota and beyond.

How GMG EnviroSafe Can Help

While we don't anticipate major implications for most of our clients, GMG EnviroSafe is committed to keeping you informed and prepared. Our team can:

1. Assist you in understanding how these regulations apply to your specific business
2. Help you communicate with suppliers about PFAS content in their products
3. Guide you through the process of finding PFAS-free alternatives
4. Keep you updated on any future regulatory changes

Partnering for PFAS Compliance and Environmental Leadership

By addressing PFAS now, you're not only ensuring compliance but also positioning your business as a leader in environmental responsibility. Remember, GMG EnviroSafe is your partner in this journey. We're here to ensure that your business remains compliant and competitive in this changing regulatory landscape.

Stay tuned for more updates from GMG EnviroSafe as we continue to monitor developments in PFAS regulations. Together, we'll keep your business on the path to success and environmental stewardship in Minnesota.