HI HB748

Beginning December 31, 2026, prohibits the manufacture, sale, offer for sale, distribution for sale, and distribution for use of any food packaging, food service ware, cosmetic, or personal care product that contains perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Hawaii.

Exempts hydrofluoroolefins used as propellants in cosmetics and products regulated as drugs, medical devices, or dietary supplements by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Repeals section 321-602, which previously prohibited intentionally introduced PFAS in food packaging effective December 31, 2024, and replaces it with a broader prohibition covering food packaging, food service ware, cosmetics, and personal care products.

Finds that PFAS are persistent "forever chemicals" that contaminate drinking water, bioaccumulate in fish and wildlife, and pose adverse health effects; references the November 2022 Red Hill firefighting foam spill that released approximately 1,300 gallons of PFAS-containing foam.