Fighting Fibers Act of 2025
The Fighting Fibers Act of 2025 would require that all new washing machines sold in the United States include a microfiber filtration system designed to capture fabric fibers released during washing. Beginning January 1, 2030, any new washer must meet specific filtration standards (a filter with mesh size not greater than 100 micrometers or an alternative standard set in a joint federal rulemaking) and carry a conspicuous label informing consumers about the filter and disposal of captured lint. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator, working with the Secretary of Energy, would jointly promulgate the implementing rules. The bill also creates civil penalties for noncompliance and authorizes an interagency study on microfibers and their health and environmental impacts, with a report due within a year of enactment. In short, the bill aims to reduce microfiber pollution from laundry by mandating built-in or inline filtration in new washers, establishing labeling to inform consumers, and funding a nationwide study on the broader implications of microfibers.
Key Points
- 1Requires every new washing machine sold or offered for sale in the United States to include a microfiber filtration system starting January 1, 2030, with a mesh size not greater than 100 micrometers (or an equivalent standard determined by the Administrator and the Secretary of Energy).
- 2Mandates a conspicuous consumer label on the washer noting the presence of a filter and advising regular filter checks and proper disposal of captured lint.
- 3Implements a joint rulemaking process (EPA Administrator and Secretary of Energy) to establish the filtration requirements, labeling, and any alternative standards.
- 4Establishes civil penalties for noncompliance: up to $10,000 for a first violation and up to $30,000 for each subsequent violation; remedies under this law are in addition to other legal remedies.
- 5Includes a science and policy component (Section 4) that defines microfiber, conducts a nationwide study on presence, sources, pathways, health/environmental effects, and environmental justice impacts, with a final report due to Congress within one year of enactment.