Geneva (May 28, 2025) – SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 063.25, reporting on the US state of New York’s prohibition on the use of intentionally-added per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting personal protective equipment (FPPE). The ban will come into force on January 1, 2028.

Known for their flame-retardant properties, many chemicals in the PFAS family have been found to cause serious health conditions, including cancer. Their toxicity and bioaccumulation in the environment mean that restrictions on their use are becoming more widespread.

Under Section 391-U of the state’s General Business Law, ‘Restrictions on the sale and use of firefighting equipment containing PFAS chemicals’, manufacturers and retailers of FPPE must provide written notice to the buyer at the point of sale if the product contains any PFAS. In addition, they must provide a reason for its inclusion.

On May 9, 2025, the governor signed into law S3008 (Chapter 58). Part SS amends the original legislation by repealing the requirement to provide a reason for including PFAS in purchaser notifications. It also prohibits the intentional addition of PFAS in FPPE and introduces a restriction banning their presence above a threshold established by the Department of Environmental Conservation.

SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 0063.25 includes a useful table summarizing the relevant highlights of S3008, including its scope and requirements, as well as a definition of FPPE.

Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 063.25 for more details.

SGS chemical testing
SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS chemical testing services.

SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full New York State Bans PFAS in Firefighting Personal Protective Equipment SafeGuardS.

Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox.

For further information contact:

Dr. HingWo Tsang
Global Information and Innovation Manager
Tel: +852 2774 7420

Melanie Tamayo
Senior Technical Manager, North America
Tel: +1 (312) 414-9394

Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines
LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products

About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.

Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.

SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).

Geneva (May 28, 2025) – SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 065.25, summarizing the US state of Washington’s revision to its rules on cookware containing lead.

The revisions, signed into law as Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill (SB) 5628 (Chapter 266, 2025) on May 13, 2025, follow a staggered approach to the changes, with the limit being lowered after two years. The law outlines the scope of the restrictions, specific exemptions and official definitions:
- ‘Aluminum or brass cookware’ refers to items made of aluminum or brass, including griddles, grills, kettles, pans, pots, internal pots for devices such as rice cookers and pressure cookers and similar vessels or surfaces on which food is cooked
- ‘Aluminum or brass utensils’ means tools made of aluminum or brass, such as forks, knives, spatulas, spoons and similar tools used for preparing, serving or eating food, unless these are completely enclosed by stainless steel

SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 065.25 includes a helpful table of comparisons between the earlier Washington State mandate restricting lead in cookware, HB 1151 (codified as 70A.565 RCW), and the new law.

Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 065.25 for more details.

SGS food contact material services
SGS’s technical experts have extensive experience of testing materials and articles in contact with food. They can ensure that your products meet the appropriate regulations for food contact materials and pave the way for compliance. SGS offers the full range of testing, including migration tests, along with expert advice on emerging regulations, compliance issues and documentation review. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS’s food contact material services.

SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Washington, USA, Revises Lead in Cookware Law SafeGuardS

Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox.

For further information contact:

Dr. HingWo Tsang
Global Information and Innovation Manager
Tel: +852 2774 7420

Melanie Tamayo
Senior Technical Manager, North America
Tel: +1 (312) 414-9394

Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines
LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products

About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.

Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.

SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).

Fortaris Capital Advisors, a leading corporate investigative firm, is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Kuzma as Managing Director, overseeing operations on the West Coast. With an impressive background in federal investigations and security operations, Chris brings a wealth of experience that will enhance Fortaris' capabilities in delivering top-tier investigative services to clients.

Chris Kuzma has over 25 years of federal investigative experience with two prominent agencies in Southern California.

U.S. Department of State: For 15 years, Chris conducted criminal investigations and worldwide protective security operations with the U.S. Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service. His roles included temporary security assignments at U.S. embassies across Europe and the Middle East.

FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force: Chris was detailed to the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Joint Terrorism Task Force in Los Angeles for two years, where he served as a protective intelligence and investigations agent.

Cyber Technology Section: He established and managed the Los Angeles Field Office's cyber technology section, focusing on digital forensics, surveillance equipment, and social media exploitation.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security: For a decade, Chris worked with Homeland Security Investigations, conducting highly sensitive international and multijurisdictional investigations as a Digital Forensic Agent, where he extracted and analyzed data to support complex criminal cases.

Kevin M. Cronin, Principal of Fortaris, expressed his enthusiasm about Chris's appointment, stating, "We are excited to welcome Chris Kuzma to the Fortaris team. His extensive investigative background and deep understanding of security operations will be invaluable as we continue to provide exceptional service to our clients. Chris's expertise will not only enhance our investigative capabilities but also strengthen our commitment to delivering the highest level of support."

"I am honored to join Fortaris Capital Advisors and look forward to contributing to the firm's mission," said Chris Kuzma. "I am dedicated to leveraging my experience to help our clients navigate complex investigative challenges and achieve their objectives."

For more information about Fortaris Capital Advisors and its services, please visit www.fortariscapital.com.

About Fortaris Capital Advisors:

Fortaris Capital Advisors is a leading corporate investigative firm dedicated to providing innovative solutions and exceptional service to clients across various sectors. With a focus on integrity, expertise, and client satisfaction, Fortaris is committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of the investigative landscape.

AUSTIN, Texas — [May 21, 2025] — Baker Law Group, PLLC is proud to announce the opening of its newest office in Austin, Texas, located at 1106 Clayton Ln Ste 565. The expansion reflects the firm’s continued growth in Texas and its commitment to serving businesses, property owners, and individuals with practical, results-driven legal solutions.

Leading the Austin office is Attorney Dalton Laney, whose practice focuses on real estate transactions, construction defect claims, HOA disputes, demand letters, and contract matters. With deep knowledge of Texas property law and a reputation for resolving complex legal issues efficiently, Laney brings trusted legal counsel to clients navigating real-world challenges.

“Austin continues to grow rapidly, and with that growth comes legal complexity in real estate, construction, and business,” said Jereme Baker, Managing Attorney of Baker Law Group, PLLC. “Dalton has the insight, professionalism, and dedication we value, and he’s the right fit to lead our expansion in Central Texas.”

Baker Law Group, PLLC serves a wide range of clients across the state, offering focused legal representation in:

• Real estate closings and purchase agreements
• Construction defect litigation and contractor disputes
• Homeowners association (HOA) law and compliance
• Demand letters and pre-litigation strategy
• Contract review, drafting, and enforcement

The firm’s Austin location adds to its presence in Colorado and Las Vegas, offering both in-person and virtual consultations. Clients can expect the same personalized attention and legal clarity that Baker Law Group, PLLC is known for across its growing footprint.

To schedule a consultation with Attorney Dalton Laney or learn more about Baker Law Group’s Austin services, visit click here or contact the firm directly at (512) 883-4225.

About Baker Law Group, PLLC

Baker Law Group, PLLC is a multi-state law firm offering strategic legal services in real estate, business law, civil litigation, and more. Known for responsiveness, transparency, and results, the firm helps clients protect what matters most.