USA: Washington adopts new rule on PFAS restriction and reporting
November 2025 - Electrical & electronics, hardlines, softlines and toys and children's products
As part of its ongoing commitment to reducing toxic chemical exposure, the Washington State Department of Ecology adopted a new rule to amend the Chapter 173-337 WAC1 for Safer Products Restrictions and Reporting. The new rule strengthens controls on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly called “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment. It introduces restrictions and reporting requirements across twelve (12) priority product categories.
Back to May 20232, the Washington State Department of Ecology (DOE) adopted the rule on certain consumer products containing priority chemicals, including PFAS restrictions on aftermarket stain- and water-resistance treatments, carpets and rugs and leather and textile furnishings. Now the new rule expands PFAS restriction to three (3) more product categories and requires reporting on nine (9) other product categories.
Below is an overview of the regulatory changes and compliance essentials.
PFAS Restrictions
Products | Requirements | Effective date |
|---|---|---|
| Intentionally added PFAS is prohibited. If total fluorine exceeds 50 ppm, the Department will presume the product contains intentionally added PFAS. | 1 January 2027
|
PFAS Reporting Obligations
Products | Requirements | Effective date |
|---|---|---|
| The manufacturer must submit an annual notice to the Department if the product contains intentionally added PFAS. If total fluorine exceeds 50 ppm, the Department will presume the product contains intentionally added PFAS. | 1 January 2026 (Reports are due 31 January 2027, and every year thereafter by 31 January.) |
References:
[1] New rule amending Chapter 173-337 WAC
[2] TÜV SÜD E-ssentials - USA: Washington state adopts rule for safer consumer products
How does this impact you and your business?
Contact us to discuss.
TÜV SÜD has dedicated experts to assist you in the development of consumer products and meeting applicable regulations. Through a global network of laboratories, TÜV SÜD offers a wide range of services that includes chemical tests, physical or mechanical tests as well as inspections to ensure the compliance of your products in target markets.
For enquiries, please contact us at [email protected]