California’s Climate Leadership Amidst Federal Policy Shifts and Regulatory Changes

In Belem, Brazil, the United States is notably absent from COP30, the United Nations climate summit taking place this week. However, California Governor Gavin Newsom made an appearance, emphasizing his commitment to climate responsibility. He acknowledged the previous administration’s lack of dedication to climate action, stating, ‘I come here with humility, coming from the United States.’

Governor Newsom aims to present California as a leader in climate initiatives, countering federal actions that undermine environmental measures. As co-chair of America Is All In—a coalition of states, tribal nations, local governments, businesses, and civil society committed to the Paris climate agreement—he highlights California’s economy as a formidable force with a GDP of $4 trillion, comparable to some of the world’s largest economies.

Newsom stresses that climate change poses significant financial risks and also presents substantial economic opportunities in sectors like clean energy and electric vehicles. He urges politicians to view climate change as a cost-of-living issue rather than just an environmental concern, stating, ‘this is not about electric power; this is about economic power.’

In legislative news, a recent appropriations bill signed by President Donald J. Trump aims to expedite the approval process for new sunscreen ultraviolet (UV) filter molecules. This legislation also impacts the legal status of certain hemp products. According to industry analysts, the bill introduces significant reforms in how the FDA regulates sunscreen ingredients.

Carl D’Ruiz from DSM anticipates that the FDA could begin approving new UV filter molecules by mid-2026, marking a significant change after over two decades without new approvals. This development is expected to enhance the effectiveness and formulation options available in the U.S. market compared to other countries.

Simultaneously, a provision within the same bill has redefined hemp products at the federal level, imposing stricter limits on psychoactive cannabinoids in consumer goods. The new limit allows only 0.4 mg total of all psychoactive cannabinoids per container, a shift from the previous 0.3% weight limit applied solely to THC.

The end of the government shutdown resulted in a ‘minibus’ bill funding several departments for a full year and maintaining current spending levels through January 30, 2026. This includes increased security funding for Congress members and various other federal programs.

In an effort to reduce regulatory burdens for industries, the EPA has proposed changes that would lessen the reporting requirements for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This proposed adjustment is aimed at lowering costs while still ensuring necessary data is collected to understand PFAS pollution sources.

The new proposal seeks to exempt companies from reporting PFAS concentrations of 0.1% or lower in mixtures and products, potentially increasing this threshold up to 1%. The American Chemistry Council supports this adjustment, arguing it recognizes the low likelihood of exposure from trace amounts.

Additionally, small-scale PFAS production for research and development may also be exempt from reporting requirements. The EPA estimates these changes could save the industry over $700 million in reporting costs while retaining essential oversight.

In other news, the EPA announced an 18-month extension for compliance with its methylene chloride risk management rule for non-federal laboratories. This extension allows more time for labs to implement necessary monitoring and compliance measures without disrupting critical functions.

Furthermore, another rule postponed the effective date for certain exemptions under the Toxic Substances Control Act concerning trichloroethylene (TCE) until February 17, 2026. Legal challenges against these regulations highlight ongoing tensions between environmental protection efforts and industry interests.