Oregon’s bill to require “Do Not Flush” labeling on wipes, HB2344, is awaiting Governor Kate Brown’s signature. Once signed into law, Oregon will be the second state with a law requiring a clear “Do Not Flush” logo on baby wipes, cleaning wipes, and other wipes that are not designed to be flushed. Washington enacted a similar law last year.

The Oregon bill received support from wastewater utilities, environmental groups, and the wipes industry. The bill avoids the contentious issue of setting flushability standards for wipes that are designed to be flushed, focusing on the vital “Do Not Flush” labeling that provides consumers with a clear message that these types of wipes should not be flushed.

Wipes legislation is pending in California, Massachusetts, Illinois, and Minnesota. In addition, the federal Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act also contains a provision requiring “Do Not Flush” labeling for wipes.

Please contact Cynthia Finley, NACWA’s Director of Regulatory Affairs, if you would like more information on wipes legislation or if you are aware of legislative efforts in your state.