SACRAMENTO, CA — As the legislative session unfolds in California, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) is championing five pivotal bills aimed at enhancing consumer health, safety, and environmental transparency. These proposed laws tackle pressing issues including energy costs, toxic chemical exposure, and food safety, reflecting California’s ongoing leadership in shaping national marketplace standards.
- Easing Access to Balcony Solar (Senate Bill 868)
Authored by Senator Scott Wiener, the Plug and Play Solar Act seeks to simplify and accelerate the adoption of small, portable solar panels for renters, apartment residents, and homeowners. By removing regulatory hurdles while ensuring strict safety standards, the bill aims to lower electricity bills and expand clean energy access. Installation is as straightforward as plugging a device into an outlet, making solar power more affordable and mobile.
- Restricting PFAS Pesticides (Assembly Bill 1603)
Assemblymember Nick Schultz’s bill targets the widespread use of PFAS, known as “forever chemicals,” in pesticides—a practice currently permitted in California. With over 2.5 million pounds applied annually, PFAS contaminate produce, soil, and water. Recent tests found PFAS pesticides on 90% of peach, nectarine, and plum samples. AB 1603 proposes a phased ban by 2035, immediate moratorium on new approvals, and mandatory disclosure of PFAS pesticide use to protect public health and the state’s agricultural integrity.
- Transparency on Heavy Metals in Protein Supplements (Senate Bill 1033)
Millions consume protein powders and bars daily without knowing if these products contain hazardous heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic. Senator Steve Padilla’s bill requires manufacturers to disclose heavy metal levels, addressing a regulatory gap and building on California’s precedent for baby food safety standards. The legislation aims to reduce long-term health risks associated with toxic metal exposure, particularly for vulnerable populations.
- Ingredient Disclosure for Baby Diapers (Assembly Bill 1901)
Assemblymember Mark Berman’s bill mandates full ingredient disclosure on packaging and online for children’s diapers sold or made in California. Recent studies detected harmful chemicals including hormone-disrupting phthalates and skin irritants in diapers. Given infants’ constant contact with these products, the bill seeks to empower parents and caregivers with critical information about potential chemical exposure.
- Defining and Certifying Ultra-Processed Foods
