The new laws will create a greater role for the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in assessing the safety of personal care products.
"FDA regulation of cosmetics has protected the public for decades, and this landmark legislation will enhance protections for millions of American consumers," said Lezlee Westine, the Council's president and CEO.
Modernize federal oversight
The legislation was introduced by Representative Leonard Lance (R-NJ), with the hope of modernizing federal oversight of cosmetics products, currently one of the safest product categories regulated by the FDA.
"Cosmetics companies recognize the need for a modern regulatory process that keeps pace with product innovation, as well as the demand for transparency. The Council applauds Congressman Lance for introducing this bill and will work to help gain bipartisan support for its passage," added Westine.
According to Council figures, the cosmetic and personal care industry employs 8.2 million people, directly or indirectly, in the US, and has an estimated $60bn in annual American retail sales.
"Everyone agrees that we need to update the regulation of personal care products," said Representative Lance.
Advance consumer safety
"This bill will continue to advance consumer safety and provide a regulatory framework that furthers growth and innovation for American cosmetics manufacturers and small businesses."
The ‘Cosmetic Safety Amendments Act of 2012’ calls for increased reporting and transparency by the industry and enhanced regulatory oversight without further straining taxpayer resources and damaging small and medium-sized businesses' ability to compete globally and create new manufacturing jobs in the US.
"Our industry is built on the trusted relationships we have established with consumers. We have always believed in going above and beyond the requirements of the current law," said Westine.
"This critical legislation provides a roadmap for a contemporary approach that includes a more engaged and transparent federal regulatory role."
The proposal has the full support of the PCPC as well as the Safe Cosmetics Alliance, which has also urged Congress to update the safety standards for cosmetics products.