The Proposition 65 List of Chemicals
This list includes a wide range of naturally occurring and synthetic chemicals that are listed for cancer or reproductive harm, or both.
Chemical Exposure Warnings (Proposition 65 Warnings)
The California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) oversees implementation of California's chemical exposure warnings law, commonly known as Proposition 65. This law requires businesses to provide warnings before people are exposed to chemicals on the state’s Proposition 65 list. The law applies to businesses with 10 or more employees that operate or sell products in California and includes the sale of products to people in the state over the Internet and through catalogs.
OEHHA's oversight includes maintaining the Proposition 65 list of chemicals through a variety of mechanisms. OEHHA also provides guidance to businesses and consumers. This includes the development of regulations to help businesses provide clear and reasonable warnings. This also includes the development of fact sheets that explain why certain chemicals are on the Proposition 65 list, how they are used, and how individuals can reduce their exposure to these chemicals.
Proposition 65, known officially as the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, became law in November 1986, when California voters approved it by a 63-37 percent margin.
What does a warning mean?
Proposition 65 warnings advise of exposures to chemicals that may contribute to an individual's overall lifetime risk of cancer or risk of birth defects or other reproductive harm.
If a warning is placed on a product label or posted or distributed at a workplace, a business, or in rental housing, the business issuing the warning is aware or believes that it is exposing individuals to one or more listed chemicals.
Whom should I ask if want more information about a warning?
- Contact the manufacturer or importer to ask about the chemical exposure that prompted the warning.
- Ask the manufacturer or importer for suggestions on how to minimize your exposure to Proposition 65 listed chemicals in the business’ product.
- If a warning is posted in a certain location, such as a storefront or office building, contact the property manager or landlord to ask about the chemical(s) that prompted the warning.
What can I do to learn more?
- Read the Proposition 65 “Big Picture” fact sheet to understand why toxic chemicals may be used or found in products, how you might be exposed to them, and what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones if you see a warning.
- Check out OEHHA’s approximately 75 fact sheets on specific chemicals and places. Learn why certain chemicals are listed and used, and how you can reduce your exposure to them.
- Some of our most popular fact sheets include: Apartments and Residential Rental Properties; Foods; Furniture Products; and Household Appliances.
- Read our responses to the most frequently asked questions.
- Read about the benefits Proposition 65 has for all Californians.
Proposition 65 Fact Sheets
Learn why certain chemicals are listed and used, and how you can reduce your exposure to them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to commonly asked questions.
How and Why Chemicals are Added to the Proposition 65 List
Learn about the scientific experts and the processes that help update the Proposition 65 list.
Proposition 65 Laws and Regulations
Read the Proposition 65 regulations. Attend meetings, hearings and workshops.
Business Resources
Discover resources, tools, and guidance to help businesses comply with Proposition 65.