SPAN Applauds California Governor Newsom’s Veto of SB 682

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 14, 2025
Contact: media@span.org

ARLINGTON, VA – Sustainable PFAS Action Network (SPAN) Executive Director Kevin Fay issued the following statement regarding California Governor Gavin Newsom’s veto of Senate Bill 682: 

“SPAN applauds Governor Gavin Newsom’s veto of Senate Bill 682. While SPAN believes that consumer products with substitutes should be addressed, the Governor’s action gives industry and state policymakers the chance to get this right on behalf of California citizens and job creators. 

As we’ve long advocated for and Governor Newsom recognized, the lack of uniform guidance only burdens state policymakers, consumers, and industry, as well as increases prices, risks job losses, and threatens America’s national security and competitive advantage.

Certain PFAS compounds are critical to everything from our military readiness and life-saving care to America’s energy security, as well as our medical and semiconductor leadership. These critical industries require the long-term stability that comes from a science-based approach to the responsible implementation of PFAS policy at both the state and federal levels, for both consumer and commercial applications of PFAS compounds.

 Let’s be clear: the Department of Toxic Substances Control first needs to execute the risk-categorization process that has been in statute since 2008 instead of creating further uncertainty with one-off rules. An effective policy requires understandable standards according to risk, before embarking on a process of product bans. We look forward to working with policymakers to establish an effective and lasting solution.”

About SPAN

Formed in 2021, SPAN members recognize that America’s innovators and industries depend on the responsible management of PFAS compounds. The organization supports science- and risk-based policy approaches that recognize the unique differences of these compounds. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified as many as 10,000 materials that are likely to meet the broadest definition of PFAS. However, the number of compounds currently commercially manufactured or used in the United States today is closer to 700. Recognizing the essential role of PFAS compounds in enabling economic prosperity, delivering lifesaving equipment and medicine, and national security, among many other important applications, SPAN is committed to their sustainable use and responsible management. More information about SPAN and industries they support is available by visiting www.span.org.