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Newsom Vetoes California Ban on PFAS in Cookware, Delivering Industry a Win

The veto followed an intense lobbying campaign by a newly organized cookware industry coalition.

Overview

  • The decision blocks S.B. 682, which sought to prohibit intentionally added PFAS in nonstick cookware and several other consumer product categories.
  • In a letter to lawmakers, Gov. Gavin Newsom called the bill well-intentioned but warned it would limit affordable options in cooking products.
  • The Cookware Sustainability Alliance, formed by Meyer and Groupe SEB and joined by brands such as All-Clad, T-fal, Farberware and Tramontina, led the opposition and met with the governor’s team.
  • Environmental and public-health advocates, including the Natural Resources Defense Council and Clean Water Action, criticized the veto and pointed to alternatives like stainless steel, cast iron and carbon steel.
  • Advocates fear the move could slow similar efforts in other states even as Minnesota’s ban is in effect, phase-outs are set in Colorado, Connecticut, Maine, Rhode Island and Vermont, and retailers including Target begin phasing out PFAS-coated pans.