Cosmetics: chemical hair relaxers.

Senator Weber Pierson's C.U.R.L. Act establishes new regulations for hair relaxer products in California, prohibiting the manufacture, distribution, and sale of products containing specific chemical ingredients such as formaldehyde, certain parabens, and phthalates. The Department of Toxic Substances Control must publish approved testing methods and laboratory accreditation requirements by January 2028, followed by comprehensive implementation regulations by January 2030.

Manufacturers must register their hair relaxer products with the department by July 2030, providing product descriptions, compliance statements, and registration fees. The department holds authority to request technical documentation and conduct independent product testing to verify compliance. Violations incur minimum penalties of $10,000 per incident, with funds deposited into a newly created C.U.R.L. Act Fund designated for program implementation.

The legislation creates an enforcement framework allowing the Attorney General to pursue legal action against violators, including seeking injunctive relief. Implementation depends on sufficient funding in the Toxic Substances Control Account and legislative appropriations, with provisions for initial loans to support startup activities until the C.U.R.L. Act Fund generates adequate revenue through fees and penalties.