Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez Leads Charge to Eliminate Toxic PFAS from Clothing in New Jersey

JERSEY CITY, NJ – July 8, 2025 — In a bold move to safeguard public health and strengthen New Jersey’s environmental protections, Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez (D-32) is once again proving herself a tireless advocate for the people. Her legislation, A5260, which aims to ban the use of toxic PFAS chemicals in clothing sold or manufactured in New Jersey, cleared a major hurdle last week when it passed the full Assembly.

Known as “forever chemicals,” PFAS are synthetic substances that do not break down easily in the environment or the human body. These dangerous compounds are increasingly being linked to long-term health effects including cancer, developmental and reproductive issues, and immune system disruption. Found in everything from cookware and cosmetics to firefighting foam and apparel, PFAS have become a growing concern for scientists, doctors, and families alike.

“Forever chemicals are everywhere,” Assemblywoman Ramirez stated passionately. “In the water we drink, the makeup and hair products we use, and the clothes we wear – and they are causing long-term health problems due to this constant exposure. This bill is one step of what must be a multistep process to remove these toxic materials from our everyday consumption and protect our residents here in New Jersey.”

Ramirez’s leadership on A5260 has garnered praise from environmental groups across the state and beyond. Clean Water Action, a national leader in environmental health advocacy, praised the legislation and Ramirez’s commitment.

“Clean Water Action is excited to continue the work that has been started by other states, such as New York and Minnesota, with A5260,” said Molly Cleary, an Environmental Advocate with the organization. “We are proud to support this legislation along with the myriad of PFAS-limiting bills taking the New Jersey Legislature by storm. Together, we can and will keep New Jerseyans safe from these ‘Forever Chemicals’.”

This legislation places New Jersey in line with a growing number of states leading the charge against PFAS contamination. While the federal government has only recently begun setting drinking water limits for PFAS, Assemblywoman Ramirez’s bill puts New Jersey ahead of the curve by proactively regulating exposure through consumer goods.

Environmental health experts and public policy analysts view A5260 as a major step toward phasing out hazardous chemicals from daily life. By targeting the fashion and textile industries, the bill also raises awareness about hidden sources of PFAS exposure that often go unnoticed by the public.

Ramirez’s legislation is not just about policy—it’s about people. Her continued focus on public health, environmental sustainability, and corporate accountability underscores her growing influence in the State Assembly and her unwavering commitment to her constituents.

For more information about A5260 or Assemblywoman Ramirez’s ongoing legislative efforts, contact her office at (201) 626-4001.

Assemblywoman Ramirez continues to solidify her reputation as one of New Jersey’s most forward-thinking legislators, leading with conviction and putting the health of residents above all else.