The Cookware & Bakeware Alliance (CBA) announced a new regulatory agency outreach program as part of its effort to help its members navigate state legislation regarding PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances) chemicals used in the production of certain nonstick cookware and a wide range of housewares products.
The CBA signed an engagement agreement with the global law firm of Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner (BCLP) on an outreach program to clarify the requirements of state legislation regulating both PFAS and lead and cadmium in cookware. Through this outreach program, BCLP will engage the agencies that are assigned to interpret and enforce the enacted laws, CBA reported. The CBA said it will compile member questions on compliance and the challenges its members face, working with BCLP to open talks with these agencies.
The outreach program will begin PFAS legislation in Minnesota regarding HF 2310 and California, AB1200, according to CBA. These two laws are enacted and are of immediate importance, according to the CBA. Minnesota legislation includes a ban on intentionally added PFAS and restrictions on the use of lead and cadmium.
“We now have two important issues facing our industry, and with consumer safety and trust at the forefront of our mission, we want to be part of the solution,” said Fran Groesbeck, CBA managing director. “Through this outreach program, we will work with the agencies charged with enforcing enacted legislation to get clarification for our members, and ultimately the industry, on how to comply and to bring awareness to the issues we face in complying. Through these efforts, we hope to set a template that helps us work with other states considering this type of legislation, eliminate wasted time and resources on both sides, help our members avoid noncompliance, and send a message to consumers that we are working to be part of the solution.”
Prior to the new outreach program agreement between CBA and BCLP, Thomas Lee, a partner in BCLP’s Energy, Environment and Infrastructure Practice Group, consulted CBA on PFAS-related legislation. Lee has also participated in several in-person and online educational sessions related to PFAS legislation presented by the International Housewares Association in partnership with CBA.
In announcing the outreach program with BCLP, the CBA also formally recognized the Cookware Sustainability Alliance (CSA), a new partnership between Groupe SEB and Meyer Corporation created to provide what CSA said is science-based information about the safety of cookware products with goal of helping consumers, retailers and policymakers make informed decisions. CSA is engaging lobbyists in a number of states regarding PFAS legislation.
“We commend CSA members for taking action on a topic that is important to them,” Groesbeck said.
In addition to the outreach program with BCLP, the CBA offers other programs related to PFAS regulation, including a legislation tracker; print, video and in-person education; and other industry updates on the matter.
