In April 2025, New Mexico passed the PFAS Protection Act, introducing one of the most comprehensive state-level efforts to regulate Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). Aimed at protecting public health and the environment, the law outlines strict product bans, mandatory reporting, and enforcement mechanisms.

Key Provisions of the PFAS Protection Act:

1. PFAS Definition:
   PFAS are defined as fluorinated organic chemicals containing at least one fully fluorinated carbon atom.
2. Product Phase-Out Timeline:

• Effective January 1, 2027:
  
  • Ban on PFAS in cookware, food packaging, dental floss, children’s products, and firefighting foam.
    
• Effective January 1, 2028:
  
  • Expansion to carpets, cleaning products, cosmetics, textile treatments, feminine hygiene products, textiles, upholstered furniture, and ski wax.
    
• Effective January 1, 2032:
  
  • Full ban on PFAS-containing products, except those classified as “currently unavoidable uses.”
    
    

3. Exemptions Include:

• Federally regulated products (e.g., medical devices, pharmaceuticals).
  
• Tools for public health and environmental testing.
  
• Certain electronics, semiconductors, and farm equipment.
  
• Uses determined “currently unavoidable” by the Environmental Improvement Board.
  

4. Reporting Obligations (Due by Jan 1, 2027):
   Manufacturers must disclose:

• Product identifiers (e.g., UPC, SKU),
  
• Purpose and type of PFAS used (with CAS numbers),
  
• Contact information,
  
• Updates required within 30 days of major changes.
  
  

5. Testing and Compliance:

• Upon suspicion of PFAS presence, the state may demand test results within 30 days.
  
• If PFAS is absent: a certificate of compliance is required.
  
• If PFAS is present: disclosure to the state and retailers is mandatory.
  
  

6. Penalties for Non-Compliance:

• Civil penalties up to $15,000 per violation per day, plus administrative fees.
  
• Court-imposed fines can reach $25,000 per day for failing to comply with orders.
  
• Penalty funds will support the Recycling and Illegal Dumping Fund.
  
  

PFAS Regulatory Landscape Across the U.S.:

• California: Ban on PFAS in food packaging and children’s products since 2023.
  
• New York: Food packaging PFAS ban effective since 2022.
  
• Vermont: Bans in firefighting foam, carpets, rugs, ski wax (2022–2023).
  
• Colorado: Staggered bans from 2024 to 2027.
  
• Maryland: Statewide PFAS bans in place since 2024.
  
• Minnesota: Food packaging PFAS ban starts in 2025.
  
• Maine: Expanding bans through 2032, including artificial turf and outdoor apparel.
  
  
• Connecticut: Full ban across 12 product categories by 2028.
  
  
• New Mexico: Progressive phase-out through 2032, aligning with leading state regulations.
  
  

New Mexico’s legislation places it among the most proactive states in addressing PFAS risks, with a structured path toward full elimination of non-essential uses.

Stay ahead in sustainability compliance with Global PCCS —where expert insights meet the latest regulations. Unlock a future where compliance fuels sustainability, helping your business thrive in a greener, well-regulated world. For more information, contact us at info@globalpccs.com