Voluntary Sustainable Apparel Labeling Act

HR 8978, the Voluntary Sustainable Apparel Labeling Act, establishes a voluntary EPA-run program for apparel companies to display standardized sustainability labels on products. The labels must show a numerical summary of full life cycle greenhouse gas emissions (from farming to disposal) and include a QR code linking to detailed data, all verified using international environmental standards. Participating apparel manufacturers and retailers (not end consumers) directly affect the labeling requirements, though participation is optional. The program mandates clear disclosure of who reports specific emission data (manufacturer vs. retailer) and requires EPA verification to prevent misleading claims. The bill also includes penalties for fraudulent label use and requires the EPA to publish effectiveness reports every 5 years.