CCAG was instrumental recently in passing Lead Screening for Children legislation. We now are building support for the “Toxic Toy Bill” which aims to ban the use of toxic chemicals, such as lead, used in products that are marketed to children up to 12 years of age. The bill would act as a stepping stone for comprehensive toxic chemical reform and would require the use of safer chemical alternatives when feasible.
Current laws allow toxic chemicals in everyday products, including those marketed to children. Manufacturers have no incentive to use safer alternatives, leaving our children as guinea pigs.
The good news is that solutions are available and, with the mounting scientific evidence, it is time for a change. Safer Alternatives to these chemicals exist and can be used to ensure children’s health and safety. In the absence of adequate federal regulations, new state policies are necessary in order to reduce childhood exposure to unsafe chemicals.
- Improve reporting requirements at the state level starting with Chemicals in Toys (we will fight to get additional funding provided for the CT DEP so that they can better enforce CT’s current reporting laws)
- Establish an Institute that monitors and inspects chemicals in children’s toys coming into the state and assists business with the implementation to safer alternatives
- Ban toxic chemicals such as phthalates from being used in toys and require the use of known safer alternatives
