Modifies the definition of “intentionally added PFAS” to mean PFAS that are deliberately added during the manufacturing of a covered product to perform a specific function.

Plain-English Summary

This bill modifies a definition within Rhode Island's Consumer PFAS Ban Act of 2024. Specifically, it clarifies what counts as "intentionally added PFAS" — a category of chemicals commonly known as "forever chemicals" because they break down very slowly in the environment and in the human body. Under this updated definition, PFAS would only be considered "intentionally added" if a manufacturer deliberately puts them into a product *on purpose* to make the product work in a specific way, such as using them to make a pan non-stick or a jacket waterproof.

The practical effect of this change is to draw a clearer line between PFAS that are purposefully used as an ingredient versus PFAS that might end up in a product accidentally — for example, as a trace contaminant or byproduct. This distinction matters because the broader PFAS ban law restricts products that contain "intentionally added PFAS," so how that term is defined determines which products fall under the law's requirements and which do not.

This bill primarily affects manufacturers and sellers of consumer products sold in Rhode Island, as well as consumers who buy those products. A narrower definition could mean fewer products are subject to the ban's restrictions, while a broader definition would capture more products. The bill was introduced in the Rhode Island House and referred to the House Environment and Natural Resources Committee, which recommended holding it for further study, meaning no final decision has been made yet.