H.R. 2269: Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety Act

This bill, known as the Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety Act (WIPPES Act), aims to address issues related to the disposal of certain products, specifically premoistened disposable wipes, by mandating clear and conspicuous labeling on their packaging. Here are the main components of the bill:

Labeling Requirements

Affected manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and other entities (referred to as "covered entities") are required to prominently display a "Do Not Flush" label and symbol on specific products. The bill provides detailed requirements for how and where this labeling should appear, including:

• Cylindrical Packaging: For products in cylindrical packaging, the label must be visible each time a wipe is dispensed, either on the package itself or on a flip lid covering at least 8% of the lid's surface area.
• Flexible Film Packaging: The symbol must be on the main display or dispensing side of the packaging, with the notice also clearly visible each time a wipe is dispensed.
• Rigid Packaging: In refillable tubs or rigid packaging, both the label and symbol must be prominently displayed.
• Bulk Packaging: Products sold in bulk must have the label visible on both the outer packaging and individual units contained within.
• Combined Products: Packaging for products sold together, where at least one is a compliant product, may be exempt from this requirement.

Definition of Covered Products

The bill specifically targets "covered products," which include:

• Baby wipes and diapering wipes.
• Household or personal care wipes made from petrochemical-derived fibers that can potentially be flushed.
• This also includes antibacterial, disinfecting, and general-purpose cleaning wipes.

Prohibition of Flushability Claims

Covered entities are also prohibited from making any claims—either explicit or implied—that a covered product can be flushed. This aims to prevent consumer confusion and encourage proper disposal methods.

Enforcement and Regulations

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will enforce these labeling requirements under regulations concerning unfair or deceptive acts. The FTC will have the authority to create regulations to ensure compliance and is encouraged to consult other relevant agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) during the regulatory process.

Preemption of State Laws

The bill states that no state or political subdivision can impose its own labeling requirements that differ from those established by this legislation, thus ensuring a uniform approach at the federal level.

Effective Date

The requirements set forth in this bill will become effective one year after its enactment.

Relevant Companies

• CLX (The Clorox Company): As a significant manufacturer of consumer wipes, Clorox may need to update its packaging to comply with the new labeling requirements.
• PG (Procter & Gamble): Known for personal care products that include wipes, the company would be impacted by the new labeling regulations.
• UNH (Unilever): Another major player in household and personal care products, Unilever might also have to adjust its product labeling under this bill.