State Bill Requiring Plastic Microfiber Labeling on Clothing Dies

A proposed state legislation advocating for warning labels on some garments made from synthetic fabrics, which can shed plastic microfibers, is no longer on the assembly floor.

“The bill is dead,” confirmed a spokesman from Assemblyman Richard Bloom’s, office. Bloom introduced the bill on Feb. 14, as part of an effort to curb marine pollution.

The label was intended for garments made of 50 percent or more synthetic fibers and sold in California. The bill sought to require a warning label about possible environmental effects related to plastic microfibers, which can enter the water supply and impact marine life, Bloom, D-Santa Monica, told the Business Journal last month.

Opposition to the bill came from apparel manufacturers and retailers who cited logistics complications and other concerns.

SEE RELATED STORY: Bill Spooks Apparel Cos., Calls for Warning Label on Synthetic Clothing

Manufacturing, retail and trade reporter Shwanika Narayan can be reached at snarayan@labusinessjournal.com or 323-556-8351. Follow her on Twitter @shwanika.