CA AB916

Prohibits the manufacture, sale, or distribution of consumer hand soap and body wash containing benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, or chloroxylenol in California, effective January 1, 2028

Exempts products intended for use in health care facilities from the prohibition

Requires manufacturers to register with the Department of Toxic Substances Control by July 1, 2028, including paying a registration charge and providing a compliance certification

Establishes penalties of at least $10,000 per violation, with funds deposited into the newly created Safer Soap Act Fund; authorizes the Attorney General to seek injunctions against violators

Based on findings that antibacterial soaps with these ingredients are no more effective than regular soap and may contribute to antimicrobial resistance, citing CDC and FDA statements