NY State Senate Bill 2025-S5605A

Current Bill Status - In Senate Committee Consumer Protection Committee

Introduced
- In Committee Assembly
- In Committee Senate
- On Floor Calendar Assembly
- On Floor Calendar Senate
- Passed Assembly
- Passed Senate
Delivered to Governor
Signed By Governor

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Actions

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Date of Action	Assembly Actions - Lowercase Senate Actions - UPPERCASE
Jun 09, 2025	print number 5605c
Jun 09, 2025	amend (t) and recommit to consumer protection
May 23, 2025	print number 5605b
May 23, 2025	amend and recommit to consumer protection
Mar 20, 2025	print number 5605a
Mar 20, 2025	amend (t) and recommit to consumer protection
Feb 25, 2025	referred to consumer protection

Bill Amendments

Original

C (Active)

2025-S5605 - Details

Current Committee:: Senate Consumer Protection
Law Section:: General Business Law
Laws Affected:: Add §396-uu, Gen Bus L

2025-S5605 - Summary

Requires washing machines sold after a certain date to contain a microfiber filtration system that meets certain specifications.

2025-S5605 - Sponsor Memo

                                 
BILL NUMBER: S5605

SPONSOR: KAVANAGH
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the general business law, in relation to requiring all
washing machines be sold with a microfiber filtration system and proper
notice of such system

 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:

This bill would require all washing machines to be sold with a microfi-
ber filtration system and proper notice of such a system.

 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

Section one of the bill amends the general business law to add a new
section 395-c. Subsection 1 defines the relevant terms. Subsection 2
outlines new requirements for washing machines to include a microfiber
filtration system. Subsection 3 outlines guidelines for manufacturers of
washing machines, distributors, and retailers.  Subsection 4 outlines
the civil penalty for violations of this section. Subsection 5 outlines

the general rights, actions, and defenses available for those subject to
this law.

Section two sets forth the effective date.

 
JUSTIFICATION:

Microplastics are ubiquitous in the environment, even in the most remote
areas. Due to their small size, they can bioaccumulate in the food chain
and cause increasing environmental concern. Studies have found micro-
plastics in humans' lungs, brains, and placentas and show that these
particles can cause oxidative damage, DNA damage, and changes in gene
activity.

Microfibers are the most common type of microplastics, according to the
EPA, and are found in several different ecosystems like wastewater,
stormwater runoff, rivers, lakes, wildlife, etc. Around 60% of clothing
is made entirely or in part by plastic, including polyester, nylon, and
acrylic. These synthetic textiles shed microfiber through daily wear and
also in washing. Scientists estimate that textiles produce 35% of ocean
microplastic pollution, an estimated 2.2 million tons annually. An aver-
age three-pound load of laundry can shed hundreds of thousands of micro-
fibers into the sewer system. Most treatment plants in the USA are
designed to reduce organic material in water and are not efficient in
removing fine synthetic particles like microplastics.

Filtration systems in washing machines are seen as an effective strategy
for capturing microfibers before they enter wastewater effluent and into
the environment. This bill would require all washing machines to be sold
with a built-in microfiber filtration system. Studies have shown that
microfiber filters can capture up to 78% of all microfibers. Other
states like California, Connecticut, and Oregon have created or passed
laws to address the growing concerns regarding microplastics, specif-
ically microfibers in washing machines. In 2020, France also mandated
that all new washing machines sold as of January 1, 2025, include a
filter to capture microfibers. New York State, through this proposed

bill, would be able to reduce the amount of microfibers floating through
our waterways and decrease environmental pollution.

 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

New bill

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

TBD

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.

2025-S5605 - Bill Text download pdf

                             
                     S T A T E   O F   N E W   Y O R K
 ________________________________________________________________________
 
                                   5605
 
                        2025-2026 Regular Sessions
 
                             I N  S E N A T E
 
                             February 25, 2025
                                ___________
 
 Introduced  by Sen. KAVANAGH -- read twice and ordered printed, and when
   printed to be committed to the Committee on Consumer Protection
 
 AN ACT to amend the general business law, in relation to  requiring  all
   washing machines be sold with a microfiber filtration system and prop-
   er notice of such system

   THE  PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, REPRESENTED IN SENATE AND ASSEM-
 BLY, DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:
 
   Section 1. The general business law is amended by adding a new section
 395-c to read as follows:
   § 395-C. SALE OF  WASHING  MACHINES.  1.  FOR  THE  PURPOSES  OF  THIS
 SECTION, THE FOLLOWING TERMS SHALL HAVE THE FOLLOWING MEANINGS:
   (A)  "MICROFIBER  FILTRATION  SYSTEM"  MEANS A FILTRATION UNIT THAT IS
 ACTIVE ACROSS ALL WASHING CYCLES AND MEETS EITHER OF THE FOLLOWING:  (I)
 THE  UNIT  IS  INTEGRATED  INTO THE WASHING MACHINE DESIGN AS A BUILT-IN
 FILTER; OR (II) THE UNIT IS INCLUDED AS AN IN-LINE FILTER AND  IS  PACK-
 AGED, SOLD, AND INSTALLED WITH THE WASHING MACHINE; AND
   (B)  "WASHING  MACHINE"  MEANS A MACHINE DESIGNED AND USED FOR WASHING
 CLOTHES AND LINEN.
   2. ON AND AFTER JANUARY FIRST, TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-NINE, A NEW WASHING
 MACHINE SHALL NOT BE SOLD OR OFFERED FOR SALE IN THE STATE FOR  RESIDEN-
 TIAL,  COMMERCIAL, OR STATE USE UNLESS THE WASHING MACHINE MEETS BOTH OF
 THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS:
   (A) CONTAINS A MICROFIBER FILTRATION SYSTEM WITH A MESH  SIZE  OF  NOT
 GREATER THAN ONE HUNDRED MICROMETERS; AND
   (B)  BEARS A CONSPICUOUS LABEL THAT IS VISIBLE TO THE CONSUMER, IN THE
 FORM OF A STICKER OR ANY OTHER LABEL TYPE, THAT INCLUDES  THE  FOLLOWING
 STATEMENT:  "NOTICE:  THIS  WASHING MACHINE CONTAINS A FILTER TO CAPTURE
 MICROFIBERS. CHECK FILTER REGULARLY AND DISPOSE OF CAPTURED  LINT  IN  A
 WASTE BIN."
   3.  (A)  A  MANUFACTURER  OF  A WASHING MACHINE THAT IS SUBJECT TO THE
 REQUIREMENTS OF SUBDIVISION TWO  OF  THIS  SECTION  SHALL  PROVIDE  EACH
 
  EXPLANATION--Matter in ITALICS (underscored) is new; matter in brackets
                       [ ] is old law to be omitted.
                                                            LBD08178-01-5

 S. 5605                             2
 
 PERSON  THAT OFFERS SUCH WASHING MACHINE FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION IN THE
 STATE WITH A CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE STATING THAT THE WASHING  MACHINE
 IS  IN  COMPLIANCE  WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION AND CONTAINS A
 MICROFIBER  FILTRATION  SYSTEM.  A  CERTIFICATE  OF  COMPLIANCE PROVIDED
 PURSUANT TO THIS SUBDIVISION SHALL BE SIGNED BY AN  AUTHORIZED  OFFICIAL
 OF THE MANUFACTURER. THE CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE MAY BE PROVIDED ELEC-
 TRONICALLY.
   (B)  A DISTRIBUTOR OR RETAILER OF A WASHING MACHINE THAT IS SUBJECT TO
 THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION SHALL NOT BE HELD IN VIOLATION OF  THIS
 SECTION  IF  THE DISTRIBUTOR OR RETAILER IS NOT ALSO THE MANUFACTURER OF
 THE WASHING MACHINE AND RELIED IN  GOOD  FAITH  ON  THE  CERTIFICATE  OF
 COMPLIANCE  PROVIDED  BY  THE  MANUFACTURER PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPH (A) OF
 THIS SUBDIVISION.
   4. UPON AN ACTION BROUGHT BY THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, A CITY ATTORNEY,  A
 COUNTY COUNSEL, OR A DISTRICT ATTORNEY, A PERSON OR ENTITY THAT VIOLATES
 THIS SECTION SHALL BE LIABLE FOR A CIVIL PENALTY NOT TO EXCEED TEN THOU-
 SAND  DOLLARS FOR THE FIRST VIOLATION, AND NOT TO EXCEED THIRTY THOUSAND
 DOLLARS FOR EACH SUBSEQUENT VIOLATION.
   5. THIS SECTION SHALL NOT IMPAIR OR IMPEDE ANY OTHER RIGHTS, CAUSES OF
 ACTION, CLAIMS, OR DEFENSES AVAILABLE UNDER ANY OTHER LAW. THE  REMEDIES
 PROVIDED  IN  THIS SECTION ARE CUMULATIVE WITH ANY OTHER REMEDIES AVAIL-
 ABLE UNDER ANY OTHER LAW.
   § 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

co-Sponsors

2025-S5605A - Details

Current Committee:: Senate Consumer Protection
Law Section:: General Business Law
Laws Affected:: Add §396-uu, Gen Bus L

2025-S5605A - Summary

Requires washing machines sold after a certain date to contain a microfiber filtration system that meets certain specifications.

2025-S5605A - Sponsor Memo

                                 
BILL NUMBER: S5605A

SPONSOR: KAVANAGH
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the general business law, in relation to requiring wash-
ing machines to meet certain filtration system requirements

 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:

This bill would require all washing machines to be sold with a microfi-
ber filtration system and proper notice of such a system.

 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

Section one of the bill amends the general business law to add a new
section 395-c. Subsection 1 defines the relevant terms. Subsection 2
outlines new requirements for washing machines to include a microfiber
filtration system. Subsection 3 outlines guidelines for manufacturers of
washing machines, distributors, and retailers.  Subsection 4 outlines
the civil penalty for violations of this section. Subsection 5 outlines
the general rights, actions, and defenses available for those subject to

this law.

Section two sets forth the effective date.

 
JUSTIFICATION:

Microplastics are ubiquitous in the environment, even in the most remote
areas. Due to their small size, they can bioaccumulate in the food chain
and cause increasing environmental concern. Studies have found micro-
plastics in humans' lungs, brains, and placentas and show that these
particles can cause oxidative damage, DNA damage, and changes in gene
activity.

Microfibers are the most common type of microplastics, according to the
EPA, and are found in several different ecosystems like wastewater,
stormwater runoff, rivers, lakes, wildlife, etc. Around 60% of clothing
is made entirely or in part by plastic, including polyester, nylon, and
acrylic. These synthetic textiles shed microfiber through daily wear and
also in washing. Scientists estimate that textiles produce 35% of ocean
microplastic pollution, an estimated 2.2 million tons annually. An aver-
age three-pound load of laundry can shed hundreds of thousands of micro-
fibers into the sewer system. Most treatment plants in the USA are
designed to reduce organic material in water and are not efficient in
removing fine synthetic particles like microplastics.

Filtration systems in washing machines are seen as an effective strategy
for capturing microfibers before they enter wastewater effluent and into
the environment. This bill would require all washing machines to be sold
with a built-in microfiber filtration system. Studies have shown that
microfiber filters can capture up to 78% of all microfibers. Other
states like California, Connecticut, and Oregon have created or passed
laws to address the growing concerns regarding microplastics, specif-
ically microfibers in washing machines. In 2020, France also mandated
that all new washing machines sold as of January 1, 2025, include a
filter to capture microfibers. New York State, through this proposed
bill, would be able to reduce the amount of microfibers floating through
our waterways and decrease environmental pollution.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

This is a new bill.

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

TBD

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.

2025-S5605A - Bill Text download pdf

                             
                     S T A T E   O F   N E W   Y O R K
 ________________________________________________________________________
 
                                  5605--A
 
                        2025-2026 Regular Sessions
 
                             I N  S E N A T E
 
                             February 25, 2025
                                ___________
 
 Introduced  by Sen. KAVANAGH -- read twice and ordered printed, and when
   printed to be committed to the Committee  on  Consumer  Protection  --
   committee  discharged,  bill amended, ordered reprinted as amended and
   recommitted to said committee
 
 AN ACT to amend the general business law, in relation to requiring wash-
   ing machines to meet certain filtration system requirements
 
   THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, REPRESENTED IN SENATE AND  ASSEM-
 BLY, DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:
 
   Section   1.  This act shall be known and may be cited as the "washing
 machine microfiber filter act".
   § 2. The general business law is amended by adding a new section  396-
 uu to read as follows:
   §  396-UU.  SALE OF WASHING MACHINES.  1. DEFINITIONS. AS USED IN THIS
 SECTION, THE FOLLOWING TERMS SHALL HAVE THE FOLLOWING MEANINGS:
   A. "MICROFIBER FILTRATION SYSTEM" MEANS  A  FILTRATION  UNIT  THAT  IS
 ACTIVE ACROSS ALL WASHING CYCLES AND MEETS EITHER OF THE FOLLOWING:
   (I) THE UNIT IS INTEGRATED INTO THE WASHING MACHINE DESIGN AS A BUILT-
 IN FILTER; OR
   (II)  THE UNIT IS INCLUDED AS AN IN-LINE FILTER AND IS PACKAGED, SOLD,
 AND INSTALLED WITH THE WASHING MACHINE; AND
   B. "WASHING MACHINE" MEANS A MACHINE DESIGNED  AND  USED  FOR  WASHING
 CLOTHES AND LINEN.
   2.  A.    ON AND AFTER JANUARY FIRST, TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-SIX, ALL NEW
 WASHING MACHINES OFFERED FOR SALE IN THE STATE SHALL CONTAIN A  BUILT-IN
 OR  IN-LINE MICROFIBER FILTRATION SYSTEM WITH A MESH SIZE OF NOT GREATER
 THAN ONE HUNDRED MICROMETERS.
   B. ALL WASHING MACHINES SOLD IN THE STATE ON OR AFTER  JANUARY  FIRST,
 TWO  THOUSAND  TWENTY-SIX SHALL BEAR A CONSPICUOUS LABEL THAT IS VISIBLE
 TO THE CONSUMER, IN THE FORM OF A STICKER OR ANY OTHER LABEL TYPE,  THAT
 INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT: "NOTICE: THIS WASHING MACHINE CONTAINS
 
  EXPLANATION--Matter in ITALICS (underscored) is new; matter in brackets
                       [ ] is old law to be omitted.
                                                            LBD08178-02-5
 S. 5605--A                          2

 
 A  FILTER TO CAPTURE MICROFIBERS. CHECK THE FILTER REGULARLY AND DISPOSE
 OF CAPTURED LINT IN A WASTE BIN."
   3.  A.  A  MANUFACTURER  OF  A  WASHING MACHINE THAT IS SUBJECT TO THE
 REQUIREMENTS OF SUBDIVISION TWO  OF  THIS  SECTION  SHALL  PROVIDE  EACH
 PERSON  THAT OFFERS SUCH WASHING MACHINE FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION IN THE
 STATE WITH A CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE STATING THAT THE WASHING  MACHINE
 IS  IN  COMPLIANCE  WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION AND CONTAINS A
 MICROFIBER FILTRATION  SYSTEM.  A  CERTIFICATE  OF  COMPLIANCE  PROVIDED
 PURSUANT  TO  THIS SUBDIVISION SHALL BE SIGNED BY AN AUTHORIZED OFFICIAL
 OF THE MANUFACTURER. THE CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE MAY BE PROVIDED ELEC-
 TRONICALLY.
   B. A DISTRIBUTOR OR RETAILER OF A WASHING MACHINE THAT IS  SUBJECT  TO
 THE  REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION SHALL NOT BE HELD IN VIOLATION OF THIS
 SECTION IF THE DISTRIBUTOR OR RETAILER IS NOT ALSO THE  MANUFACTURER  OF
 THE  WASHING  MACHINE  AND  RELIED  IN  GOOD FAITH ON THE CERTIFICATE OF
 COMPLIANCE PROVIDED BY THE MANUFACTURER PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPH A OF  THIS
 SUBDIVISION.
   4.  UPON AN ACTION BROUGHT BY THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, A CITY ATTORNEY, A
 COUNTY COUNSEL, OR A DISTRICT ATTORNEY, A PERSON OR ENTITY THAT VIOLATES
 THIS SECTION SHALL BE LIABLE FOR A CIVIL PENALTY NOT TO EXCEED TEN THOU-
 SAND DOLLARS FOR THE FIRST VIOLATION, AND NOT TO EXCEED THIRTY  THOUSAND
 DOLLARS FOR EACH SUBSEQUENT VIOLATION.
   § 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

co-Sponsors

2025-S5605B - Details

Current Committee:: Senate Consumer Protection
Law Section:: General Business Law
Laws Affected:: Add §396-uu, Gen Bus L

2025-S5605B - Summary

Requires washing machines sold after a certain date to contain a microfiber filtration system that meets certain specifications.

2025-S5605B - Sponsor Memo

                                 
BILL NUMBER: S5605B

SPONSOR: KAVANAGH
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the general business law, in relation to requiring wash-
ing machines to meet certain filtration system requirements

 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:

This bill would require all washing machines to be sold with a microfi-
ber filtration system and proper notice of such a system.

 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

Section one of the bill provides that this act shall be known as the
"washing machine microfiber filter act".

Section two of the bill amends the general business law to add a new
section 396-uu. Subsection 1 defines the relevant terms. Subsection 2
outlines new requirements for washing machines to include a microfiber
filtration system. Subsection 3 outlines guidelines for manufacturers of

washing machines, distributors, and retailers.  Subsection 4 outlines
the civil penalty for violations of this section. Subsection 5 outlines
the general rights, actions, and defenses available for those subject to
this law.

Section three sets forth the effective date.

 
JUSTIFICATION:

Microplastics are ubiquitous in the environment, even in the most remote
areas. Due to their small size, they can bioaccumulate in the food chain
and cause increasing environmental concern. Studies have found micro-
plastics in humans' lungs, brains, and placentas and show that these
particles can cause oxidative damage, DNA damage, and changes in gene
activity.

Microfibers are the most common type of microplastics, according to the
EPA, and are found in several different ecosystems like wastewater,
stormwater runoff, rivers, lakes, wildlife, etc. Around 60% of clothing
is made entirely or in part by plastic, including polyester, nylon, and
acrylic. These synthetic textiles shed microfiber through daily wear and
also in washing. Scientists estimate that textiles produce 35% of ocean
microplastic pollution, an estimated 2.2 million tons annually. An aver-
age three-pound load of laundry can shed hundreds of thousands of micro-
fibers into the sewer system. Most treatment plants in the USA are
designed to reduce organic material in water and are not efficient in
removing fine synthetic particles like microplastics.

Filtration systems in washing machines are seen as an effective strategy
for capturing microfibers before they enter wastewater effluent and into
the environment. This bill would require all washing machines to be sold
with a built-in microfiber filtration system. Studies have shown that
microfiber filters can capture up to 78% of all microfibers. Other
states like California, Connecticut, and Oregon have created or passed
laws to address the growing concerns regarding microplastics, specif-
ically microfibers in washing machines. In 2020, France also mandated
that all new washing machines sold as of January 1, 2025, include a
filter to capture microfibers. New York State, through this proposed
bill, would be able to reduce the amount of microfibers floating through
our waterways and decrease environmental pollution.

 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:,:

This is a new bill.

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

To be determined.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.

2025-S5605B - Bill Text download pdf

                             
                     S T A T E   O F   N E W   Y O R K
 ________________________________________________________________________
 
                                  5605--B
 
                        2025-2026 Regular Sessions
 
                             I N  S E N A T E
 
                             February 25, 2025
                                ___________
 
 Introduced by Sens. KAVANAGH, MAY -- read twice and ordered printed, and
   when  printed  to be committed to the Committee on Consumer Protection
   -- committee discharged, bill amended, ordered  reprinted  as  amended
   and  recommitted  to  said  committee  --  committee  discharged, bill
   amended, ordered reprinted as amended and recommitted to said  commit-
   tee
 
 AN ACT to amend the general business law, in relation to requiring wash-
   ing machines to meet certain filtration system requirements
 
   THE  PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, REPRESENTED IN SENATE AND ASSEM-
 BLY, DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:
 
   Section  1.  This act shall be known and may be cited as the  "washing
 machine microfiber filter act".
   §  2. The general business law is amended by adding a new section 396-
 uu to read as follows:
   § 396-UU. SALE OF WASHING MACHINES.  1. DEFINITIONS. AS USED  IN  THIS
 SECTION, THE FOLLOWING TERMS SHALL HAVE THE FOLLOWING MEANINGS:
   A.  "MICROFIBER  FILTRATION  SYSTEM"  MEANS  A FILTRATION UNIT THAT IS
 ACTIVE ACROSS ALL WASHING CYCLES AND MEETS EITHER OF THE FOLLOWING:
   (I) THE UNIT IS INTEGRATED INTO THE WASHING MACHINE DESIGN AS A BUILT-
 IN FILTER; OR
   (II) THE UNIT IS INCLUDED AS AN IN-LINE FILTER AND IS PACKAGED,  SOLD,
 AND INSTALLED WITH THE WASHING MACHINE; AND
   B.  "WASHING  MACHINE"  MEANS  A MACHINE DESIGNED AND USED FOR WASHING
 CLOTHES AND LINEN.
   2. A.  ON AND AFTER JANUARY FIRST, TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-EIGHT, ALL  NEW
 WASHING  MACHINES OFFERED FOR SALE IN THE STATE SHALL CONTAIN A BUILT-IN
 OR IN-LINE MICROFIBER FILTRATION SYSTEM WITH A MESH SIZE OF NOT  GREATER
 THAN ONE HUNDRED MICROMETERS.
   B.  ALL  NEW  WASHING  MACHINES  SOLD IN THE STATE ON OR AFTER JANUARY
 FIRST, TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-EIGHT SHALL BEAR A CONSPICUOUS LABEL THAT  IS
 VISIBLE  TO  THE  CONSUMER,  IN THE FORM OF A STICKER OR ANY OTHER LABEL
 
  EXPLANATION--Matter in ITALICS (underscored) is new; matter in brackets
                       [ ] is old law to be omitted.
                                                            LBD08178-03-5

 S. 5605--B                          2
 
 TYPE, THAT INCLUDES  THE  FOLLOWING  STATEMENT:  "NOTICE:  THIS  WASHING
 MACHINE CONTAINS A FILTER TO CAPTURE MICROFIBERS. CHECK THE FILTER REGU-
 LARLY AND DISPOSE OF CAPTURED LINT IN A WASTE BIN."
   3.  A.  A  MANUFACTURER  OF  A  WASHING MACHINE THAT IS SUBJECT TO THE
 REQUIREMENTS OF SUBDIVISION TWO  OF  THIS  SECTION  SHALL  PROVIDE  EACH
 PERSON  THAT OFFERS SUCH WASHING MACHINE FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION IN THE
 STATE WITH A CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE STATING THAT THE WASHING  MACHINE
 IS  IN  COMPLIANCE  WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION AND CONTAINS A
 MICROFIBER FILTRATION  SYSTEM.  A  CERTIFICATE  OF  COMPLIANCE  PROVIDED
 PURSUANT  TO  THIS SUBDIVISION SHALL BE SIGNED BY AN AUTHORIZED OFFICIAL
 OF THE MANUFACTURER. THE CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE MAY BE PROVIDED ELEC-
 TRONICALLY.
   B. A DISTRIBUTOR OR RETAILER OF A WASHING MACHINE THAT IS  SUBJECT  TO
 THE  REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION SHALL NOT BE HELD IN VIOLATION OF THIS
 SECTION IF THE DISTRIBUTOR OR RETAILER IS NOT ALSO THE  MANUFACTURER  OF
 THE  WASHING  MACHINE  AND  RELIED  IN  GOOD FAITH ON THE CERTIFICATE OF
 COMPLIANCE PROVIDED BY THE MANUFACTURER PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPH A OF  THIS
 SUBDIVISION.
   4.  UPON AN ACTION BROUGHT BY THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, A CITY ATTORNEY, A
 COUNTY COUNSEL, OR A DISTRICT ATTORNEY, A PERSON OR ENTITY THAT VIOLATES
 THIS SECTION SHALL BE LIABLE FOR A CIVIL  PENALTY  NOT  TO  EXCEED  FIVE
 HUNDRED  DOLLARS FOR THE FIRST VIOLATION, AND NOT TO EXCEED ONE THOUSAND
 DOLLARS FOR EACH SUBSEQUENT VIOLATION.
   § 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

co-Sponsors

2025-S5605C (ACTIVE) - Details

Current Committee:: Senate Consumer Protection
Law Section:: General Business Law
Laws Affected:: Add §396-uu, Gen Bus L

2025-S5605C (ACTIVE) - Summary

Requires washing machines sold after a certain date to contain a microfiber filtration system that meets certain specifications.

2025-S5605C (ACTIVE) - Sponsor Memo

                                 
BILL NUMBER: S5605C

SPONSOR: KAVANAGH
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the general business law, in relation to enacting the
"washing machine microfiber filtration act"

 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:

This bill would require all washing machines to be sold with a microfi-
ber filtration system and proper notice of such a system.

 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

Section one of the bill provides that this act shall be known as the
"washing machine microfiber filter act".

Section two of the bill amends the general business law to add a new
section 396-uu. Subsection 1 defines the relevant terms. Subsection 2
outlines new requirements for washing machines sold after two thousand
thirty to include a microfiber filtration system, with a conspicuous

sticker or label with notice regarding such system and instructions on
its use. Subsection 3 outlines guidelines for manufacturers of washing
machines, distributors, and retailers.  Subsection 4 outlines exemptions
for distributors or retailers who acquire washing machines on or before
December thirty-first, two thousand twenty-nine. Subsection 5 allows the
department of environmental conservation to adopt the necessary rules
and regulations for compliance. Subsection 6 outlines the maximum civil
penalties for violations brought by the attorney general, a city attor-
ney, a county counsel, or a district attorney.

Section three sets forth the effective date.

 
JUSTIFICATION:

Microplastics are ubiquitous in the environment, even in the most
remote, areas. Due to their small size, they can bioaccumulate in the
food chain and cause increasing environmental concern. Studies have
found microplastics in humans' lungs, brains, and placentas and show
that these particles can cause oxidative damage, DNA damage, and changes
in gene activity.

Microfibers are the most common type of microplastics, according to the
EPA, and are found in several different ecosystems like wastewater,
stormwater runoff, rivers, lakes, wildlife, etc. Around 60% of clothing
is made entirely or in part by plastic, including polyester, nylon, and
acrylic. These synthetic textiles shed microfiber through daily wear and
also in washing. Scientists estimate that textiles produce 35% of ocean
microplastic pollution, an estimated 2.2 million tons annually. An aver-
age three-pound load of laundry can shed hundreds of thousands of micro-
fibers into the sewer system. Most treatment plants in the USA are
designed to reduce organic material in water and are not efficient in
removing fine synthetic particles like microplastics.

Filtration systems in washing machines are seen as an effective strategy
for capturing microfibers before they enter wastewater effluent and into
the environment. This bill would require all washing machines to be sold
with a built-in microfiber filtration system. Studies have shown that
microfiber filters can capture up to 78% of all microfibers. Other
states like California, Connecticut, and Oregon have created or passed
laws to address the growing concerns regarding microplastics, specif-
ically microfibers in washing machines. In 2020, France also mandated
that all new washing machines sold as of January 1, 2025, include a
filter to capture microfibers.  New York State, through this proposed
bill, would be able to reduce the amount of microfibers floating through
our waterways and decrease environmental pollution.

 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

This is a new bill.

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

To be determined.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.

2025-S5605C (ACTIVE) - Bill Text download pdf

                             
                     S T A T E   O F   N E W   Y O R K
 ________________________________________________________________________
 
                                  5605--C
 
                        2025-2026 Regular Sessions
 
                             I N  S E N A T E
 
                             February 25, 2025
                                ___________
 
 Introduced  by  Sens. KAVANAGH, FERNANDEZ, MAY -- read twice and ordered
   printed, and when printed to be committed to the Committee on Consumer
   Protection -- committee discharged, bill amended, ordered reprinted as
   amended and recommitted to said  committee  --  committee  discharged,
   bill  amended,  ordered  reprinted  as amended and recommitted to said
   committee -- committee discharged, bill amended, ordered reprinted  as
   amended and recommitted to said committee
 
 AN  ACT  to  amend the general business law, in relation to enacting the
   "washing machine microfiber filtration act"
 
   THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, REPRESENTED IN SENATE AND  ASSEM-
 BLY, DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:
 
   Section  1.  This  act shall be known and may be cited as the "washing
 machine microfiber filtration act".
   § 2. The general business law is amended by adding a new section  396-
 uu to read as follows:
   §  396-UU.  SALE OF WASHING MACHINES; MICROFIBER FILTRATION.  1. DEFI-
 NITIONS. AS USED IN THIS SECTION, THE FOLLOWING  TERMS  SHALL  HAVE  THE
 FOLLOWING MEANINGS:
   A.  "MICROFIBER FILTRATION SYSTEM" MEANS A FILTER OR OTHER FEATURE, OR
 A SERIES OF FILTERS OR OTHER FEATURES, BUILT INTO A WASHING  MACHINE  OR
 PACKAGED,  SOLD,  AND INSTALLED WITH A WASHING MACHINE THAT REMOVES FROM
 WATER USED ACROSS ALL WASHING CYCLES NINETY PERCENT OR  MORE  OF  FIBERS
 AND MICROFIBERS THAT ARE ONE HUNDRED MICROMETERS OR LARGER.
   B.  "WASHING  MACHINE"  MEANS  A MACHINE DESIGNED AND USED FOR WASHING
 CLOTHES AND LINEN.
   2. A. ON AND AFTER JANUARY FIRST, TWO THOUSAND THIRTY, NO NEW  WASHING
 MACHINES SHALL BE OFFERED FOR SALE OR SOLD IN THE STATE WITHOUT A MICRO-
 FIBER FILTRATION SYSTEM.
   B.  ALL  NEW  WASHING  MACHINES  SOLD  IN  THE STATE WITH A MICROFIBER
 FILTRATION SYSTEM ON OR AFTER JANUARY FIRST, TWO THOUSAND  THIRTY  SHALL
 BEAR A CONSPICUOUS STICKER OR OTHER LABEL THAT IS VISIBLE TO THE CONSUM-
 
  EXPLANATION--Matter in ITALICS (underscored) is new; matter in brackets
                       [ ] is old law to be omitted.
                                                            LBD08178-05-5

 S. 5605--C                          2
 
 ER  AND  THAT  INCLUDES  THE  FOLLOWING STATEMENT: "NOTICE: THIS WASHING
 MACHINE INCLUDES A  FILTRATION  SYSTEM  TO  CAPTURE  MICROFIBERS."  SUCH
 STATEMENT  SHALL  BE  FOLLOWED  BY INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING THE MANNER AND
 FREQUENCY  WITH  WHICH THE CONSUMER SHOULD CHECK THE SYSTEM'S FILTERS OR
 OTHER FEATURES AND DISPOSE OF ANY FIBERS OR MICROFIBERS CAPTURED.
   3. A. A MANUFACTURER OF A WASHING  MACHINE  THAT  IS  SUBJECT  TO  THE
 REQUIREMENTS  OF  SUBDIVISION  TWO  OF  THIS  SECTION SHALL PROVIDE EACH
 PERSON THAT OFFERS SUCH WASHING MACHINE FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION IN  THE
 STATE  WITH A CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE STATING THAT THE WASHING MACHINE
 IS IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION  AND  CONTAINS  A
 MICROFIBER  FILTRATION  SYSTEM.  A  CERTIFICATE  OF  COMPLIANCE PROVIDED
 PURSUANT TO THIS SUBDIVISION SHALL BE SIGNED BY AN  AUTHORIZED  OFFICIAL
 OF THE MANUFACTURER. THE CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE MAY BE PROVIDED ELEC-
 TRONICALLY.
   B.  A  DISTRIBUTOR OR RETAILER OF A WASHING MACHINE THAT IS SUBJECT TO
 THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION SHALL NOT BE HELD IN VIOLATION OF  THIS
 SECTION  IF  THE DISTRIBUTOR OR RETAILER IS NOT ALSO THE MANUFACTURER OF
 THE WASHING MACHINE AND RELIED IN  GOOD  FAITH  ON  THE  CERTIFICATE  OF
 COMPLIANCE  PROVIDED BY THE MANUFACTURER PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPH A OF THIS
 SUBDIVISION.
   4. NOTWITHSTANDING THE PROVISIONS OF SUBDIVISION TWO OF THIS  SECTION,
 ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER THIRTY-FIRST, TWO THOUSAND THIRTY A DISTRIBUTOR OR
 RETAILER  OF WASHING MACHINES THAT IS NOT ALSO A MANUFACTURER OF WASHING
 MACHINES SHALL BE PERMITTED TO OFFER FOR  SALE  OR  TO  SELL  A  WASHING
 MACHINE  THAT  DOES  NOT COMPLY WITH THE PROVISIONS OF SUCH SUBDIVISION,
 PROVIDED THAT SUCH WASHING MACHINE WAS  ACQUIRED  FOR  SALE  WITHIN  THE
 STATE  BY  SUCH  DISTRIBUTOR  OR  RETAILER ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER THIRTY-
 FIRST, TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-NINE.
   5. THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION MAY ADOPT ANY RULES OR
 REGULATIONS IT DEEMS NECESSARY FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE  PROVISIONS
 OF  THIS  SECTION,  INCLUDING  STANDARDS  AND PROCEDURES FOR DETERMINING
 WHETHER A WASHING MACHINE IS  COMPLIANT  WITH  THE  PROVISIONS  OF  THIS
 SECTION.
   6.  UPON AN ACTION BROUGHT BY THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, A CITY ATTORNEY, A
 COUNTY COUNSEL, OR A DISTRICT ATTORNEY, A PERSON OR ENTITY THAT VIOLATES
 THIS SECTION SHALL BE LIABLE FOR A CIVIL  PENALTY  NOT  TO  EXCEED  FIVE
 HUNDRED  DOLLARS FOR THE FIRST VIOLATION, AND NOT TO EXCEED ONE THOUSAND
 DOLLARS FOR EACH SUBSEQUENT VIOLATION.
   § 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

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Alison_Waliszewski

4 months ago

June 5, 2025

Re: Support for S5605A / A4716A – Microfiber Filtration Requirements for Washing Machines

Chair, Consumer Protection Committee
New York State Senate
Legislative Office Building, Room 804
Albany, NY 12247

Dear Senator May and Members of the Consumer Protection Committee;

On behalf of the 5 Gyres Institute, I write in strong support of S5605A / A4716A, which would require all new residential and commercial washing machines sold in New York to include integrated microfiber filtration systems. As an environmental nonprofit dedicated to advancing science-based solutions to plastic pollution, we view this bill as a critical step in protecting public health, ecosystems, and water quality.

Microfibers are one of the most prevalent and persistent forms of microplastic pollution. These particles shed during washing, drying, and use of synthetic textiles are transported by air and water and have been found in oceans, freshwater, soil, the Arctic, and even Mount Everest¹. They can persist in the environment for decades or longer due to their chemical treatments, coatings, and resistance to degradation².

Since 1950, an estimated 4.8 million metric tons of synthetic microfibers have entered the environment³. Wastewater treatment plants emit between 30,000 and 15 million microfibers per day even after standard filtration³. Biosolids containing trapped microfibers are often applied to farmland, introducing additional pollutants to soils⁴. Microfibers are also transported via air and are the most common microparticles found in human lungs⁵.

Microfibers accumulate in fish, birds, terrestrial animals, and humans, with studies detecting them in trout, salmon, anchovies, white suckers, black rockfish, and various invertebrates⁶⁻⁷. In humans, microfibers have been found in the lungs, placenta, liver, and brain, showing the capacity to translocate across tissues and organs⁸⁻¹⁰. Inhalation in indoor environments, especially poorly ventilated spaces can result in exposure of up to 140 particles per kilogram of body weight per day¹¹.

These fibers can cause gut blockages, gill damage, inflammation, and endocrine disruption, and can act as chemical carriers, absorbing pesticides, PAHs, heavy metals, and additives commonly used in textile production¹²⁻¹⁵. Their irregular shape and diverse chemical makeup complicate toxicological assessments and heighten long-term risks to human and ecosystem health.

Filtration is a proven solution. Washing machine filters can capture up to 90% of shed fibers before they enter wastewater systems¹⁶. Real-world pilots show these technologies are effective in reducing citywide emissions¹⁷. A recent cost analysis commissioned by The Nature Conservancy found that incorporating microfiber filters at the manufacturing stage would increase the price of a new residential machine by only $14–$20, with costs expected to fall as adoption scales.

By requiring integrated filtration on new washing machines, S5605A / A4716A takes a vital upstream approach to preventing microplastic pollution before it begins. New York has the opportunity to lead by example and reduce microfiber emissions at their source—protecting our waterways, wildlife, and communities.

5 Gyres is proud to support this legislation and urges swift passage. Thank you for your leadership in tackling this urgent issue.

Sincerely,

Alison Waliszewski
Director of Regional Policy & Program Development
5 Gyres Institute

References
¹ Stanton et al. Sci Total Environ (2019).
² Lacasse & Baumann. Textile Chemicals (Springer, 2004).
³ Tao et al. Environ Sci Technol Lett (2022).
⁴ Kapp & Miller. PLoS ONE (2020).
⁵ Saini et al. Indoor Air (2017).
⁶ Munno et al. Conserv Biol (2021).
⁷ Lasdin et al. PeerJ (2023).
⁸ Ragusa et al. Environ Int (2021).
⁹ Horvatits et al. eBioMedicine (2022).
¹⁰ Amato-Lourenço et al. JAMA (2024).
¹¹ Saini et al. Indoor Air (2017).
¹² Athey et al. Water (2022).
¹³ Schellenberger et al. Environ Sci Technol (2019).
¹⁴ Xue et al. Environ Sci Technol (2017).
¹⁵ Lacasse & Baumann. Textile Chemicals (Springer, 2004).
¹⁶ Gavigan et al. PLoS ONE (2020).
¹⁷ Michishita et al. Environ Pollut (2023).

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