New Jersey Enacts PFAS Product Restrictions Under Protecting Against Forever Chemicals Act

New Jersey enacted the Protecting Against Forever Chemicals Act (P.L.2025, c.202), which prohibits intentionally added PFAS in carpets, cosmetics, fabric treatments, and food packaging composed of paper, paperboard, or plant fiber-derived materials, effective January 12, 2028. Cookware with PFAS in handles or food-contact surfaces requires bilingual (English/Spanish) labeling stating 'This product contains PFAS.' The law defines 'intentionally added PFAS' to include PFAS deliberately added for specific characteristics and their degradation byproducts, while excluding technically unavoidable trace quantities from impurities or manufacturing processes. Enforcement is through the Division of Consumer Affairs with civil penalties of $1,000-$20,000 per violation.