Gavin Newsome vetoed California A bill banning the sale of cookware and other consumer products made from Pfasalso known as “forever chemicals,” man-made compounds linked to a range of health problems.
The governor's decision Monday followed months of debate and advocacy, including from celebrity chefs such as Thomas Keller and Rachael Ray, who argued that nonstick cookware made from Pfasif produced responsibly, it can be safe and effective, and urged lawmakers to vote against the proposal.
Newsom said in statement that the law was “well-intentioned” but would affect too wide a range of products and would result in a “significant and rapid change” in the culinary products available in the state.
“I am deeply concerned about the impact this bill will have on the availability of affordable culinary food options,” Newsom wrote, adding that the state “must carefully consider” the consequences of the dramatic change in available foods.
Concerns about use PfasIn recent years, there has been a significant increase in the amount of chemicals used to make cookware and other items with non-stick and water-resistant coatings. Called “forever chemicalsBecause they do not break down naturally, Pfas are used in nonstick cookware, waterproof mascara and dental floss, among other items.
Pfas associated with a number health problemswith some linked to high cholesterol, reproductive problems and cancer. USGS study in 2023 found chemicals in nearly half of the country's tap water.
The state would ban the sale or distribution of products including cleaning products, kitchen utensils, dental floss, food packaging and ski wax with “intentionally laced” Pfas by 2030, according to a bill approved by the California Legislature.
The bill received support from major environmental groups, as well as opposition from influential figures such as Ray and Keller and celebrity chefs who argued it would place an unfair burden on restaurants. Ray argued that the focus should be on educating consumers rather than eliminating products.
“Restricting access to these products without providing evidence-based context could harm the very people we are trying to protect,” Ray said.
Ben Allen, the state senator who introduced the bill, said Los Angeles Times he planned to continue working on the issue.
“We are obviously disappointed,” he told the newspaper. “We know there are safer alternatives – [but] I understand there were strong voices on both sides of the issue on this topic.”
Over the weekend, Newsom also vetoed legislation aimed at racial justice, including a bill that would allow universities to give preference to descendants of enslaved people in admissions while approving funding for reparations research. He also signed a bill allowing a wider range of family members to care for children if the federal government deports their parents.
