PFAS: Maine's PFAS Exemption Deadline Has Passed

For manufacturers selling products in Maine, a critical regulatory deadline has now passed. June 1, 2025, was the final day for companies to apply for a "currently unavoidable use" (CUU) designation for products containing intentionally added per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

This application was the only pathway to seek an exemption from the state's comprehensive ban on PFAS in products, which is set to take full effect on January 1, 2026.

To be granted a CUU exemption, manufacturers were required to provide robust evidence demonstrating that:

• The use of PFAS is essential for the product to function as intended.
• There are no safer or technically feasible alternatives available on the market.

Companies that missed the June 1 deadline or have their CUU applications denied will be legally required to cease selling any products containing intentionally added PFAS in Maine by the 2026 effective date. This underscores the state's firm commitment to phasing out these chemicals from consumer goods and requires immediate attention from any affected businesses to ensure compliance.