Clean Water Current

Illinois’ Wipes Labeling Act was signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker on August 6, making Illinois the third state to require “Do Not Flush” labeling on non-flushable wipes.  Similar laws have been enacted in Washington and Oregon, with wipes legislation also pending in California, Massachusetts, and Minnesota.

Like the laws in Washington and Oregon, the Illinois law avoids the contentious issue of setting flushability standards for wipes that are designed to be flushed, focusing on the vital “Do Not Flush” labeling that provides consumers with a clear message that these types of wipes should not be flushed.  These wipes labeling bills have been supported by the wipes industry.

In addition, the federal Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety Act (WIPPES) was introduced on July 21 by Reps. Lowenthal (D-CA) and McClain (R-MI).  This bill would direct the Federal Trade Commission, in consultation with U.S. EPA, to issue regulations requiring wipes manufacturers to include “Do Not Flush” labeling on non-flushable wet wipes packaging.

Please contact Cynthia Finley, NACWA’s Director of Regulatory Affairs, if you would like more information on wipes legislation or if you are aware of legislative efforts in your state.