ASSEMBLY BUDGET COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 5260

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  JUNE 26, 2025

      The Assembly Budget Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 5260.

      As reported, this bill would prohibit, beginning two years after the bill’s effective date, the sale, manufacture, and distribution of apparel containing intentionally added PFAS within the State.  As defined in the bill, “apparel” means (1) clothing items intended for regular wear or formal occasions, including, but not limited to, undergarments, shirts, pants, skirts, dresses, overalls, bodysuits, costumes, vests, dancewear, suits, saris, scarves, tops, leggings, school uniforms, leisurewear, athletic wear, sports uniforms, everyday swimwear, formal wear, onesies, bibs, diapers, footwear, and everyday uniforms or work-wear; (2) outdoor apparel; and (3)  outdoor apparel designed for severe wet conditions.

      A violation of the bill’s provisions would be an unlawful practice pursuant to P.L.1960, c.39 (C.56:8-1 et seq.), commonly known as the State's consumer fraud act.  An unlawful practice under the consumer fraud act is punishable by a monetary penalty of not more than $10,000 for a first offense and not more than $20,000 for any subsequent offense.  In addition, a violation can result in cease and desist orders issued by the Attorney General, the assessment of punitive damages, and the awarding of treble damages and costs to the injured.

FISCAL IMPACT:

      This bill is not certified as requiring a fiscal note.