Topics
Appearances (1)
2026-10-15
Washington’s PFAS and Cookware Rules: Rising Costs and Affordability ConcernsIn the Health Policy Podcast episode titled "Washington’s PFAS and Cookware Rules: Rising Costs and Affordability Concerns," Jan Himebaugh, President and CEO of the Washington Retail Association, discusses the implications of proposed bans on nonstick cookware due to concerns over "forever chemicals." Himebaugh highlights the economic impact on both retailers and consumers, emphasizing that such regulations could lead to higher prices and reduced product choices, ultimately affecting food affordability in Washington State. The episode underscores the need for balanced policy that considers both public health and economic realities.
Notable quotes
“Retail theft is a huge issue for members large and small. In Washington, we think a survey says it's about $2.7 billion of product annually that's walking out of stores unpaid for.”
“What you're doing is putting pressure particularly on the most disadvantaged among us because they're now having added pressure to figure out how to prepare food because they can't afford the pot or the pan to make it in.”
“This really comes down to lead. The proponents are folks who don't have any concept of how materials are manufactured or what our national standards are.”
“I think forever chemicals is not a scientific term. It's not been proved. It just sort of— and it's a big assumption that these chemicals are imparting anything to a food.”
“It's not just about businesses, it's about people's everyday lives. It's about people, real-life human beings.”
“It is not in manufacturers' best interest. It is not in retailers' best interest to be selling or producing things that are unhealthy and bad for people.”
