Prop 65
California’s Proposition 65 Information
You may have seen this warning on various products:
⚠️ WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals, including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
What is California Proposition 65?
Proposition 65, also known as the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act, mandates that companies inform California residents of the risk of exposure to certain chemicals, which the state has determined may cause cancer or reproductive harm. This requirement applies to products sold within California that contain any of the chemicals listed under Proposition 65. You may see these warnings on product labels, in stores, and at various public locations across California, such as restaurants, hospitals, and amusement parks.
Who is required to display a Proposition 65 Warning?
Companies are required to display a Proposition 65 warning if their product contains any listed chemical at levels exceeding California’s strict “Safe Harbor” thresholds, which are often more conservative than federal standards. These thresholds include many naturally occurring elements, such as heavy metals found in soil and water. While California has its own unique requirements, no other state or country enforces Proposition 65 in the same way. The presence of a Proposition 65 warning does not necessarily mean a product is unsafe; rather, it ensures California consumers are informed about trace levels of certain chemicals so they can make an educated purchase decision.
Some products, like Rapid Rope, may contain trace levels of naturally occurring minerals like lead, which are below federal safety thresholds but require Proposition 65 warnings in California. Despite this, Rapid Rope products remain safe for daily use and meet rigorous standards.
For more information about Proposition 65, visit www.oehha.ca.gov/prop65.html.