Connecticut bill would create list of chemicals dangerous to kids

As parents in Connecticut know, they must always be watchful of the toys that they buy their children. Whether the toy contains small parts or a questionable chemical, consumers must be aware of the possible dangers in items they buy. While some retailers have taken steps to eliminate the use of hazardous chemicals in consumer products, consumer advocate groups still find high levels of dangerous chemicals in common household, outdoor and children’s products. Consumers deserve a right-to-know about toxic chemicals in the products they buy.

In Connecticut, a bill is being considered that would require multiple state agencies to develop a list of chemicals that may be harmful to children. To create the report with the list, the agencies would have to consider the possible exposure of the dangerous products to a fetus and a child. Some industrial chemicals can be very dangerous and are able to cross the placenta and pass through mother to child through breast milk.

Several state agencies listened to testimony about the bill, and officials discussed different issues pertaining to the proposed bill.

Local Connecticut businesses and in the surrounding area need the information that would be in the report to push the toxic chemicals out of the industry and make the products that people use everyday safer. Experts reported that out of over 84,000 chemicals found in consumer products, including toys, only a small number have been tested for safety.

Retailers are supposed to be providing products to make the lives of families and children better and safer, not unknowingly putting their health in peril.

Source:  ctpost.com, “Conn. bill requires unsafe chemicals to be listed” No author given, Mar. 06, 2014