WIPPES Act

This bill sets a national “Do Not Flush” labeling rule for many premoistened wipes, like baby, cleaning, and personal care wipes. Packages must clearly show the words “Do Not Flush” and a standard symbol used by the wipes industry, so shoppers can easily see it before and during use. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will enforce these rules and can write regulations to carry them out.

Labels have to be easy to see on the front of the package and, when needed, near the lid or the side where wipes come out. They must be high-contrast and big enough—at least about 2% of the front panel. There are specific placement rules for tubes, soft packs, hard tubs, bulk packs, and very small single packs. Companies are not allowed to say or suggest that these wipes are flushable. States can’t set different labeling rules; the standard is the same nationwide. The requirements start 1 year after the bill becomes law .

Key points

• Who is affected: Companies that make, package, or sell premoistened nonwoven wipes (e.g., baby, cleaning, personal care).
• What changes: Clear “Do Not Flush” words and symbol, placed where you can see them every time a wipe is used; high-contrast; at least ~2% of the front panel; special rules for different package types and very small single packs .
• Claims: No claims that these wipes are flushable.
• Enforcement: FTC enforces and may issue regulations .
• Uniform standard: States cannot set different labeling requirements.
• When: Takes effect 1 year after enactment.