A new federal bill aimed at simplifying and standardizing environmental claims on product packaging has been introduced in the US House of Representatives, seeking to reduce consumer confusion caused by inconsistent state regulations.
On 18 December 2025, US representative Randy Weber of Texas introduced the Packaging and Claims Knowledge (PACK) Act of 2025. The legislation seeks to create a national framework governing recyclable, compostable and reusable labeling on consumer packaging. The bill has been supported by the packaging industry association AMERIPEN, which has long advocated for uniform standards on environmental claims.
If enacted, the PACK Act would direct the Federal Trade Commission to establish clear and enforceable standards for environmental marketing claims on packaging. The proposal calls for packaging claims to be supported by qualified third-party certifications and sets out criteria for when packaging can be labeled as recyclable, compostable or reusable. Packaging that does not meet those standards would be prohibited from displaying commonly used symbols associated with sustainability claims, such as the recycling symbol.
The legislation also requires the Federal Trade Commission to convene an advisory council of experts and stakeholders within one year of enactment. The agency would then be tasked with issuing formal guidance within two years outlining certification requirements and evaluation methods. These guidelines would consider factors such as material type, packaging design, size and color in determining eligibility for environmental claims.
Supporters of the bill argue that a single national standard would replace the current patchwork of state-level labeling rules, which can vary widely and pose compliance challenges for companies operating across multiple jurisdictions. Industry representatives say consistent federal guidance would improve transparency for consumers, reduce confusion at the point of purchase and support credible sustainability efforts.
The introduction of the PACK Act comes as state governments, including California, continue to tighten restrictions on environmental marketing claims, increasing pressure for coordinated federal oversight of packaging labeling practices.
