Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to regulate the use of toxic chemicals in cosmetics sold or distributed in Minnesota. It seeks to enhance consumer safety by restricting certain hazardous substances in cosmetic products and providing support for small businesses in transitioning to safer alternatives.

Main Provisions

• Chemical Prohibitions: Starting January 1, 2027, the manufacturing, sale, and distribution of cosmetics containing specific hazardous chemicals, such as orthophthalates, formaldehyde, and triclosan, will be prohibited in Minnesota. Certain levels of lead compounds in cosmetics will also be restricted.
• Exemptions: Retailers can sell off existing stock of banned cosmetics until January 1, 2028.
• Hazard Identification: By July 1, 2026, the state will identify additional chemicals that could be as harmful as those currently listed, and this information will be made public.
• Support for Small Businesses: Initiatives will support small businesses and beauty salons in obtaining certifications for non-hazardous cosmetics and transitioning to safer products.
• Rulemaking and Enforcement: The bill authorizes the development of rules to implement safety standards, including creating lists of chemicals that release formaldehyde. It also establishes penalties for non-compliance, with fines of up to $5,000 for a first offense and $10,000 for repeat offenses.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Amends Minnesota Statutes to include new definitions related to toxic substances in cosmetics.
• Establishes new prohibitions on certain chemicals in cosmetics and outlines responsibilities for the Pollution Control Agency to enforce these rules.
• Modifies existing law to expand definitions and improve safety in products commonly used by the public, specifically adding stricter regulation on the cosmetics containing hazardous chemicals.

Relevant Terms

toxins, cosmetics, orthophthalates, formaldehyde, methylene glycol, triclosan, lead compounds, hazardous chemicals, Pollution Control Agency, small businesses, environmental health certifications, rulemaking, enforcement, civil penalties.