Washington State to Ban BPS in Thermal Paper by 2026: What Businesses Need to Know

Washington State has announced new regulations impacting the future of thermal receipt paper. Starting January 1, 2026, the sale, offer for sale, or manufacture of thermal receipt paper containing bisphenols (such as BPA and BPS) will be prohibited under Washington’s Safer Products for Washington initiative. This means that all businesses—from retailers and restaurants to service providers—will need to transition to Phenol-Free Thermal Receipt Paper Rolls before the effective date.


What This Means for Your Business

Although enforcement begins in 2026, businesses are encouraged to begin the transition early. Doing so helps avoid supply chain issues, ensures equipment compatibility, and demonstrates a proactive approach to compliance. Recommended next steps include:

  • Reviewing your current receipt paper stock to confirm whether it contains BPS.
  • Working with your supplier to identify and source phenol-free alternatives.
  • Testing new paper rolls with your thermal printers to ensure performance and print quality.
  • Educating your team on the upcoming change and its timeline.
POS Supply Solutions Is Here to Help

All of POS Supply’s thermal receipt paper rolls are already BPA-free. We’ve made that standard across our product line to support healthier workplaces and meet state and customer expectations.

We also recognize the growing need to eliminate BPS, which is why we offer a full line of Phenol-Free Thermal Receipt Paper Rolls in our most popular sizes, like 3 1/8” x 230’ and 2 1/4” x 50’ and more. These phenol-free thermal paper rolls are made without BPA, BPS, or any other phenol-based developers. They deliver the same reliable print performance and are compatible with most thermal receipt printers.

Plan Ahead to Stay Compliant

By making the switch now, Washington businesses can avoid last-minute disruptions and ensure a smooth transition before the 2026 deadline. Washington also offers a reimbursement program to help businesses offset costs for replacing bisphenol thermal paper or upgrading POS equipment. For more details, visit the Washington Department of Ecology.


Key Takeaways: Washington's 2026 Thermal Paper Regulation

  • Effective January 1, 2026, Washington will prohibit the use of thermal receipt paper containing bisphenols (BPA and BPS).
  • Businesses must transition to phenol-free thermal receipt paper to stay compliant.
  • POS Supply Solutions offers thermal paper rolls that are already BPA-free and provides a full selection of phenol-free thermal paper rolls, including popular receipt roll sizes like 3 1/8 x 230' and 2 1/4" x 50'.
  • Phenol-free thermal paper is free from BPA, BPS, and other phenol-based developers, while delivering the same print performance and compatibility with thermal receipt printers.
  • Early adoption helps businesses avoid disruptions and stay compliant.