California Bureau updates flammability standards in response to new legislation

The BEARHFTI Advisory Council convened on November 29, 2018, to discuss significant legislative changes impacting the Bureau of Household Goods and Services in California. The meeting highlighted two key bills that will directly affect the Bureau's operations and regulatory framework.

One of the primary topics was Assembly Bill 2998, which aims to prohibit the use of flame retardant chemicals above 1,000 parts per million in various products, including juvenile items, mattresses, and reupholstered furniture. This legislation empowers the Bureau to publish a list of products that cannot be sold in California based on failed testing results. Amendments to the bill have refined the definition of flame retardants and included additional requirements for mattress producers to report on the chemical content of their products. The International Sleep Products Association will conduct a survey of both registered and non-registered mattress manufacturers, with reporting obligations beginning on January 31, 2020, and recurring every three years. This initiative is expected to enhance consumer safety and transparency regarding the materials used in mattresses.

The second significant discussion centered around the Sunset Bill, which has successfully passed through the legislative process. This bill includes technical amendments and a name change for the Bureau, which will not require further testimony until 2022. The meeting also addressed the need for updates to the Max 4 tariff to reflect changes in the business and professions code, ensuring that all regulatory language is consistent and clear.

Additionally, the council noted the introduction of Senate Bill 3551, the Safer Occupancy Furniture Flammability Act, which seeks to establish California's flammability standards as the national benchmark. Although still in its early stages, this bill could have far-reaching implications for furniture safety regulations across the country.

In conclusion, the discussions at the BEARHFTI Advisory Council meeting underscored the Bureau's commitment to enhancing consumer safety through legislative updates and regulatory reforms. As these bills progress, the Bureau will continue to adapt its practices to ensure compliance and protect public health. The next steps involve implementing the new regulations and monitoring the outcomes of the ongoing legislative changes.