The proposed "Microplastics Reduction Act" aims to address the growing concern of microplastic pollution in the state. The act prohibits manufacturers from selling, offering for sale, or distributing products containing intentionally added synthetic polymer microparticles, effective January 1, 2029. It mandates the Department of Environmental Management, in consultation with the Department of Health, to develop a microplastics testing plan to regularly assess the presence of microplastics in water, soil, and other environmental media. This testing plan must be made public by July 1, 2028, and updated every twenty-four months thereafter.

Additionally, the act requires the adoption of a statewide microplastics strategy plan by January 1, 2029. This plan will include the characterization of ambient concentrations of microplastics in environmental media, an assessment of the environmental and health impacts associated with microplastic contamination, an investigation of significant sources and pathways of microplastics, a summary of existing scientific research on reducing microplastics, and recommendations for policy changes or additional research needed to mitigate their presence. The Department of Environmental Management is encouraged to utilize existing information and ongoing efforts in developing this strategy, which will also be updated every twenty-four months. The act is set to take effect upon passage.