The Protecting Against Forever Chemicals Act seeks to regulate perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as "forever chemicals," due to their environmental persistence and associated health risks. The bill prohibits the sale, distribution, or offering for sale of products with intentionally added PFAS, including cosmetics, carpets, fabric treatments, food packaging, and cookware, starting two years after the act's effective date. It requires manufacturers of PFAS-containing cookware to label their products in both English and Spanish, clearly indicating the presence of PFAS. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is tasked with conducting research, monitoring, and educational programs on PFAS, and is empowered to recommend additional product categories for prohibition based on public health concerns.

To enforce these regulations, the act grants the Commissioner of Environmental Protection authority to issue orders, impose civil penalties, and conduct audits for compliance, with penalties ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 per day for violations. The DEP will also establish a source reduction program to minimize PFAS in the state's environment and educate the public about safer alternatives. The bill allocates $5 million from the General Fund for the DEP to implement these initiatives and mandates annual reporting to the Governor and Legislature on research findings and recommendations. Additionally, it ensures the confidentiality of proprietary information submitted to the DEP, safeguarding trade secrets from public disclosure.