President Bush to Sign Bill Banning Phthalates in Children’s Toys
Published: 6 August 2008
Category: Bisphenol A (BPA), Hormonal Changes, Packaging CONCERNS, Phthalates, Studies/Federal Regulations
The “San Francisco Chronicle” reports President Bush is expected to sign a bill that enforcement provisions of the nation’s consumer products safety agency and banning lead, phthalates and other harmful chemicals in children’s toys. Phthalates, a plastic softener used in raincoats, shower curtains and upholstery, are believed to cause harm to the reproductive system. According to the article, the amendment prohibits the manufacture, sale or importation of toys and other products that contain certain phthalates, with different protections for children ranging up to age 12. Senator Feinstein (D-CA) has instructed her staff to look into phthalates in other products besides toys and is also is proposing legislation to restrict bisphenol A, a plastic hardener that is used to make polycarbonate, a hard, clear plastic once popular in types of Nalgene bottles.