Fighting Fibers Act of 2024

The Fighting Fibers Act of 2024 requires that all new washing machines sold in the United States contain a microfiber filtration system starting January 1, 2030, and directs research on microfibers in the environment and human body.

Sec. 2, Definition of Administrator: The term "Administrator" means the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.

Sec. 3, Microfiber filtration in washing machines: Starting January 1, 2030, no new washing machine may be sold in the U.S. unless it contains a microfiber filtration system with a mesh size no greater than 100 micrometers (or an equally effective standard set by rulemaking), bears a consumer-visible label about the filter, and meets any other requirements set by rulemaking. The Administrator and Secretary of Energy may issue regulations. Violators face civil penalties of up to $10,000 for a first violation and $30,000 for each subsequent violation. These penalties are in addition to other legal remedies, and the section does not impair other rights or claims.

Sec. 4, Microfiber research and directives: The Administrator must conduct a nationwide study on the presence, sources, and pathways of microfibers (synthetic or natural textile fibers less than 5 millimeters in length) in the human body and environment, their toxic effects, and any inequitable impact on environmental justice communities. A report must be submitted to Congress and made public within one year of enactment.