The Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances Protection Act seeks to prohibit the sale and distribution of products containing intentionally added per- or poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in New Mexico through a phased approach. Starting January 1, 2027, manufacturers will be banned from selling specific items such as cookware, food packaging, and firefighting foam that contain PFAS. This prohibition will expand by January 1, 2028, to include additional products like carpets, cosmetics, and textiles. The Environmental Improvement Board is empowered to adopt further regulations to restrict other consumer products containing PFAS based on their potential health and environmental risks.

The bill also enhances the regulatory framework by allowing the Department of Environment to waive information submission requirements for manufacturers if equivalent information is publicly available and to enter agreements with other states for information collection. It establishes a process for manufacturers to submit testing results for products suspected of containing PFAS, including a requirement for a certificate of compliance if no PFAS is detected. Enforcement mechanisms are outlined, including civil penalties of up to $15,000 per violation, with additional daily fines for ongoing noncompliance, and mandates that collected penalties be deposited into the recycling and illegal dumping fund. Overall, the bill aims to improve oversight and compliance regarding PFAS in consumer products while ensuring transparency and accountability from manufacturers.