Purpose of the Bill

The bill is designed to regulate harmful chemicals in cosmetics within Minnesota, effectively banning certain substances to enhance consumer safety and protect vulnerable populations. It aims to limit exposure to toxic chemicals found in cosmetic products and encourage safer alternatives.

Main Provisions

• Prohibition of Toxic Chemicals: Starting January 1, 2027, the manufacture, sale, distribution, or use of cosmetics containing specific toxic chemicals like orthophthalates, formaldehyde, methylene glycol, triclosan, and certain phenylenediamines will be banned.
• Lead Restrictions: The bill sets limits on lead content in cosmetics, prohibiting lead or lead compounds at levels of two parts per million or higher, and for products with colorants or clay masks, at five parts per million or higher.
• Exemptions for Stock: In-state retailers can sell their existing stock of non-compliant cosmetics until January 1, 2028.
• Rules for Formaldehyde-Releasing Chemicals: By January 1, 2028, additional regulations will affect cosmetics with chemicals that release formaldehyde, with further rules possible starting from January 1, 2029.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Identification of Hazardous Chemicals: By July 1, 2026, the Pollution Control Agency's commissioner will identify and assess hazards of alternative chemicals used in cosmetics.
• Support for Small Businesses: Initiatives will be launched to assist small businesses in obtaining environmental health certifications and transitioning to safer cosmetics, including technical aid and financial incentives.

Enforcement

• Civil Penalties: Manufacturers violating these provisions could face civil penalties, with first offenses capped at $5,000 and repeat offenses at $10,000.
• Stakeholder Engagement: The commissioner must collaborate with stakeholders to gather input for rule-making and implementation processes.
• Monitoring and Compliance: The commissioner, with the aid of other departments, will monitor compliance and can request information from businesses for enforcement purposes.

Relevant Terms

• Toxic chemicals, cosmetics, orthophthalates, formaldehyde, triclosan, methylene glycol, lead, vulnerable populations, environmental safety, small business support, rulemaking, enforcement.