An Act to Reduce Microfiber Pollution
Microplastics present an escalating threat to human health and marine ecosystems. Modern clothing is increasingly manufactured from synthetic plastic-derived fibers; consequently, a single load of laundry releases up to 18 million microscopic fibers that easily bypass municipal wastewater filters, contaminating drinking water reservoirs and bays.
This Act implements a point-of-source solution, mandating that starting January 1, 2029, all new residential washing machines sold in Massachusetts must include built-in microfiber filters (mesh size under 100 micrometers). Backed by a $2M public education campaign, the bill includes a safeguard allowing a temporary two-year waiver for certified external filter attachments if built-in options face short-term supply shortages.