By Bob Katzen
The Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee has recommended passage of a bill that would direct the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), in consultation with the Toxics Use Reduction Institute, to create and publish a list of toxic chemicals in children’s products; a list of high priority chemicals in children’s toys and other products; and a list of safer alternative chemicals that can replace chemicals on the high priority chemical list.
Manufacturers who make children’s consumer products that are for sale in the state would be required to report detailed information to DEP about the inclusion of toxic chemicals in their products. The information would then be made public on DEP’s website. DEP would be required every three years to report and make recommendations on additional ways to reduce exposure to toxic chemicals in children’s products. The bill would also ban PFAS in children’s products, subject to rules and regulations promulgated by the department.
“We know that these forever chemicals are in our everyday products and the harm that they pose to our health–especially the health of our children,” said sponsor Sen. Cindy Friedman (D-Arlington) who said she hopes to see it move to the floor for a vote soon.”