Illinois Moves to Phase Out Toxic “Forever Chemicals” With New Law (Springfield, IL) – Illinois has taken a major step toward phasing out harmful “forever chemicals” after Gov. JB Pritzker signed a sweeping bill Friday aimed at curbing exposure to substances linked to cancer, liver disease, and other health risks.
The new law, sponsored by Sen. Julie Morrison (D–Lake Forest) and Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid (D–Bridgeview), bans the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances — widely known as PFAS — in the manufacturing of children’s products, cosmetics, menstrual products, dental floss and certain types of apparel by 2032.
Environmental groups praised the measure, calling it one of the strongest actions yet in Illinois to address the chemicals, which are nearly impossible to break down in the environment.
“By now, it is likely that you have heard of PFAS chemicals — and for those who haven’t, you most certainly have interacted with them, probably on a daily basis for many years now,” said Jen Walling, executive director of the Illinois Environmental Council. “In passing and signing this legislation, the legislature and Gov. Pritzker are stepping up to protect public health and hold polluters accountable.”
PFAS have been used since World War II in products ranging from nonstick cookware and stain-resistant carpets to water-repellent clothing and grease-resistant food packaging. But their durability — the same quality that makes them useful in manufacturing — means they persist in soil, water, and even the human body for decades. Researchers have linked long-term exposure to thyroid disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, reduced fertility, low birth rates and cancers.
Andrea Densham, senior policy adviser at the Alliance for the Great Lakes, called the law “a critically important next step in protecting the people of Illinois from toxins.” She added that the measure will not only benefit consumers but also reduce risks for workers and communities near factories.
While Illinois is moving to restrict PFAS, national regulations remain inconsistent. Advocates contrasted the state’s action with federal rollbacks under the Trump administration, which cut funding for PFAS health research and eased restrictions on chemical manufacturers.
“This bill illustrates how states can lead the way and prevent pollution at the source while ending the use of toxic chemicals in consumer products,” Densham said.
Morrison and Rashid will be recognized for their work at the Illinois Environmental Council’s Annual Environmental Leadership Dinner in Chicago next month.
The law takes effect immediately, with manufacturers given several years to phase out PFAS from the targeted consumer products.
Illinois Moves to Phase Out Toxic “Forever Chemicals” With New Law
