Michigan House Bill HB4766

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/13/25
• Refer: 8/13/25

Caption

Trade: consumer goods and services; personal care products containing plastic microbeads; prohibit manufacture and acceptance for sale. Amends 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.101 - 324.90106) by adding subpt. 3 to pt. 147.

Impact

If enacted, HB 4766 will have a substantial impact on state laws surrounding environmental protection and consumer health. The legislation is intended to create a cleaner ecological footprint by restricting the use of microbeads, which are commonly found in products like exfoliating scrubs and similar personal care items. The bill enforces penalties for non-compliance, allowing for fines of up to $2,000 per day for violations, which will be directed to the state general fund. This financial deterrent underscores the seriousness of the issue and the state's commitment to mitigating environmental harm.

Summary

House Bill 4766 proposes amendments to the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by introducing a new subpart specifically addressing plastic microbeads in consumer products. The bill aims to prohibit the manufacture, sale, and distribution of materials containing plastic microbeads starting January 1, 2026, with stricter measures for personal care and cleaning products effective from January 1, 2027. The decision comes as a response to growing environmental concerns related to microbeads, which are known to contribute significantly to pollution and pose a threat to aquatic life.

Contention

While the bill is likely to garner support from environmental groups advocating for cleaner waterways, it may face opposition from some manufacturers and industry groups that rely on plastic microbeads in their products. Concerns may arise regarding the economic impact on businesses that would need to reformulate their products in response to the new regulations. Opponents might argue that the amendments do not account for the feasibility of such changes within industry timelines, raising questions about how they will balance compliance with operational costs.