It's nice to share a bit of good news here on this blog, because much of the time the news of chemicals in products we all use everyday is overwhelming and deeply troubling.
But at least now, more and people are paying attention and taking action.
I've had the good fortune of meeting some folks from the Alliance for a Clean and Healthy Maine, and apparently, along with the state legislature, they've made some great progress. We recently started a similar alliance in Vermont, and I am hoping to begin working more closely with them and VPRIG this fall on the topic of reproductive toxins.
So I read that Maine passed legislation to (from Rueters): "broadly identify and investigate “chemicals of high concern” in consumer products, particularly those that may reach children." It also requires that "makers of toxic chemicals to notify state authorities of the quantity and purpose of the chemicals and work to develop safer alternatives."
The common criticism, it seems, is that we need a federal system for this (did someone say the Kid Safe Chemicals Act? Yes!). But as often is the case, the states need to set the example and break new ground before this happens. And the Maine legislature is sending a clear message to chemical manufacturers and to those who use these chemicals in their products-- we want to protect the environment, and our citizens, especially children.
The Reuters article goes on to indicate that other states are considering similar legislation, and that states such as Washington and California have made bold steps by banning toxic flame retardants and phthalates. It also points out that the last chemical the EPA banned was asbestos in 1989. Yep, 1989 folks, when Milli Villi came out with the song "Girl You Know It's True". Don't pretend you don't remember, and that was quite a long, long time ago.
