California AB916 would ban certain chemicals in consumer hand soaps and body washes.

California AB916, known as the Safer Soap Act, would prohibit the sale of consumer hand soaps and body washes containing benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, and chloroxylenol starting January 1, 2028. The bill cites significant health and environmental risks associated with these chemicals, particularly for children. Despite the global market for antibacterial soaps, scientific research indicates these products are no more effective than regular soap and water. The Department of Toxic Substances Control would enforce the ban, with penalties for violations.

California AB916 would ban certain chemicals in consumer hand soaps and body washes.

California AB916, known as the Safer Soap Act, would prohibit the sale of consumer hand soaps and body washes containing benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, and chloroxylenol starting January 1, 2028. The bill cites significant health and environmental risks associated with these chemicals, particularly for children. Despite the global market for antibacterial soaps, scientific research indicates these products are no more effective than regular soap and water. The Department of Toxic Substances Control would enforce the ban, with penalties for violations.