What Are PFAS and Why Are They So Dangerous?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called forever chemicals, are a group of synthetic compounds used in everything from nonstick cookware to water-resistant fabrics and food packaging. These chemicals don’t break down easily in the environment or the human body, which means they accumulate over time. This persistence — and the growing body of evidence linking PFAS exposure to serious health conditions — has triggered a wave of PFAS lawsuits and legislative efforts to restrict or ban them. Manufacturers and defendants in these lawsuits strongly deny any liability and/or wrongdoing.
Health concerns potentially linked to PFAS contamination include:
- Increased risk of certain cancers
- Hormonal disruptions
- Liver and kidney damage
- Immune system dysfunction
- Low birth weight and developmental delays
As a result, PFAS bans are becoming more common at the state level, even as federal regulations remain limited and industry groups push back.
Here are a few of the recent developments in PFAS-related legislation across the United States:
New Mexico Takes a Stand with a Phased PFAS Ban
In one of the boldest moves yet, New Mexico passed legislation in April 2025 to phase out the sale of consumer products containing intentionally added PFAS. The law outlines a three-stage timeline:
- By January 1, 2027: Ban on products such as juvenile items, cookware, food packaging, and firefighting foam.
- By January 1, 2028: Expansion to cosmetics, feminine hygiene products, carpets, textiles, and ski wax.
- By January 1, 2032: A sweeping ban on all PFAS-containing consumer products unless deemed “currently unavoidable” by the New Mexico Environment Department.
Despite the growing health concerns, nearly 50 industry groups opposed the legislation, warning it could impact thousands of products and lead to economic fallout. Their focus is on exemptions for fluoropolymers like PTFE, commonly used in nonstick cookware.
Minnesota’s Amara’s Law: A Model for Other States?
Minnesota’s Amara’s Law — named after a child who suffered health effects tied to PFAS — was enacted in 2023 and is one of the most comprehensive PFAS bans in the country. It bans the sale of all products with intentionally added PFAS by 2032, with earlier deadlines for high-priority categories like food wrappers and firefighting foams.
The law also requires manufacturers to disclose which products contain PFAS starting in 2026. While public support is strong, the cookware industry has challenged the legislation in court, claiming it unfairly targets safe, FDA-approved uses of PFAS.
Maine: The First State to Enact a Full PFAS Ban
Maine made history in 2021 as the first state to pass a comprehensive PFAS ban. The law requires manufacturers to report PFAS use and prohibits the sale of any products with intentionally added PFAS by 2030. For items like rugs, carpets, and fabric treatments, the ban came into effect in 2023.
Maine’s strong stance has been influential, inspiring other states to follow suit. Despite challenges from industry groups, the law remains in place and is widely regarded as a gold standard for PFAS regulation.
Other States Following Suit
Several additional states are considering or have enacted their own PFAS bans, including:
- California: Has already banned PFAS in children’s products and cosmetics, and is considering expanding to more consumer goods.
- Washington: Uses its authority under the Safer Products for Washington Act to restrict PFAS in textiles, firefighting gear, and food contact materials.
- Colorado: Enacted laws in 2022 restricting PFAS in certain firefighting foams, oil and gas operations, and carpets.
As consumer awareness grows, more states are expected to introduce similar laws in 2025 and beyond.
Federal Regulations and Industry Backlash
At the federal level, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed maximum contaminant levels for PFAS in drinking water and is ramping up research and testing programs. However, progress is slow and often undermined by political pressure and industry lobbying.
In 2025, federal officials proposed regulatory changes that could override some state bans by redefining chemical safety evaluations. These efforts, if successful, could exempt certain PFAS compounds from safety reviews, making it more difficult for states to enforce restrictions.
Industry groups argue that a one-size-fits-all ban is unfair, given the wide range of PFAS types and uses. Still, many environmental and health advocates believe this argument is an attempt to delay accountability and prolong the use of harmful chemicals.
How PFAS Contamination Affects You
PFAS contamination is more widespread than many people realize. These chemicals have been detected in the blood of nearly every American, and communities near manufacturing plants, military bases, and landfills are especially vulnerable. Drinking water contamination is one of the most common sources of exposure.
In Riddle & Riddle’s own backyard of North Carolina, PFAS is a growing problem facing North Carolina communities.
If you or your loved ones live in an area affected by PFAS or have developed health issues potentially linked to exposure, you may have grounds for a PFAS lawsuit. Across the country, people are holding chemical manufacturers accountable for decades of pollution and deception.
Our firm is actively investigating PFAS contamination and representing clients in PFAS lawsuits. If you believe you meet the following criteria, call 1-800-525-7111 for a free case review to see if you may qualify for a PFAS lawsuit:
- You were exposed to a PFAS chemical due to industrial exposure or products, commercial products, contaminated water, AFFF firefighting foam, or another qualifying source of exposure
- NOTE: Exposure from consumer products containing PFAS currently do not qualify for these specific lawsuits
- You suffered from kidney cancer, liver cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid cancer, or ulcerative colitis.
Legal Help for Victims of PFAS Contamination
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers are actively investigating PFAS contamination claims and helping victims understand their legal options. You could be eligible for compensation related to medical costs, loss of income, emotional distress, and more.
Call 1-800-525-7111 today for a free case review. There’s no obligation — and no attorney fees unless we win your case and you receive compensation. When Justice Counts™, count on the team at Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers.