Assemblymember Stefani Introduces Legislation to Eliminate Toxic Chemicals from Paper Receipts

SACRAMENTO, CA - Today, Assemblymember Catherine Stefani announced AB 1604, legislation to eliminate the use of toxic bisphenols in paper receipts and reduce a widespread but often overlooked source of chemical exposure for Californians-one that disproportionately affects women and poses particular risks related to breast cancer.

Bisphenol A (BPA) and bisphenol S (BPS) are commonly used in thermal receipt paper and are known hormone disruptors linked to reproductive harm, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. These chemicals easily transfer from receipts to skin, posing particular risks to retail workers who handle receipts continuously throughout the workday. AB 1604 would prohibit intentionally added BPA in paper receipts beginning in 2027 and ban the entire class of intentionally added bisphenols starting in 2028.

"Californians shouldn't have to worry that something as routine as accepting a receipt could expose them to chemicals linked to cancer and other serious health conditions," said Assemblymember Stefani. "AB 1604 is a straightforward, science-based step to protect public health while encouraging the use of safer, readily available alternatives."

Studies have found that the vast majority of paper receipts contain BPA or BPS, and research shows retail workers have significantly higher levels of these chemicals in their bodies than the general population. Several states and the European Union have already taken action to restrict or ban bisphenols in receipt paper, demonstrating that safer alternatives are readily available.

"Bisphenol A and bisphenol S-two chemicals used in thermal receipt paper-are potent hormone disruptors linked to reproductive harm, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and several cancers, including breast cancer," said Nancy Buermeyer, Director of Program and Policy at Breast Cancer Prevention Partners. "Receipt paper is a direct and avoidable source of exposure for consumers and, in particular, cashiers who handle receipts throughout the workday. These chemicals transfer easily from paper to skin, making everyday transactions a hidden but preventable health risk. Safer alternatives are already widely available, and Washington State has banned the entire class of bisphenols in receipt paper. California should follow the science and act now to protect public health. We applaud Assemblymember Stefani for her leadership on this critical issue."

AB 1604 would be enforced by the Department of Toxic Substances Control and local prosecutors, with civil penalties for violations.

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