New York Bill A06500 Proposes Lead Restrictions in Consumer Products

Assembly Bill A06500 was introduced in the New York State Assembly by Assembly member Vanel and referred to the Committee on Environmental Conservation. The bill proposes amendments to the Environmental Conservation Law to prohibit the manufacture and sale of consumer products containing more than 90 mg/kg of lead unless clearly labeled with a warning. It defines key terms such as “consumer product,” “children’s product,” and “retailer,” and allows for private rights of action against violators, excluding certain small manufacturers and secondhand sellers.

The bill includes exemptions for products where lead is essential to the product's function and no safer alternatives exist. It also clarifies that retailers are only liable if they knowingly sell noncompliant products. This proposed legislation aims to strengthen consumer protection and reduce lead exposure risks, especially for children. The law will take effect 180 days after becoming law.