DiDomenico Co-Sponsors Bill Banning Toxic Flame Retardants

BOSTON – Last week, Senator Sal DiDomenico (D-Everett) and his colleagues in the Massachusetts Senate unanimously passed legislation to ban certain toxic chemical flame retardants from children's products, including toys and nap mats, upholstered furniture, window dressings, carpeting, and bedding that has been made or sold in the state. Senator DiDomenico is a co-sponsor of this critical bill and has been a longtime supporter of its passage. 

“For years, flame retardants have provided us with a false sense of security, all while posing a serious health threat to the people of the Commonwealth, especially our children and fire fighters. By reducing the amount of dangerous toxic chemicals in our homes, this bill will go a long way towards improving public health and protecting our first responders,” said Senator DiDomenico, Assistant Majority Leader of the Massachusetts Senate.

The bill establishes an initial list of eleven chemical flame retardants that would be subject to the ban. The list is based on scientific research which shows that exposure may lead to an increased risk of cancer, neurological issues, fertility problems and other health concerns. The bill requires that manufacturers notify retailers about those products which contain the chemicals before the ban goes into effect.

Foam products, including toys, are the most likely item to be treated with flame retardant chemicals. Over time, the chemicals are diffused throughout the home as dust, which can be inhaled or absorbed by children, pets and other family members. The Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts support this legislation, and have raised special concern about the heightened health risks that result from chemical flame retardants when they are exposed to high heat and combustion.

Chemical compounds used as flame retardants can change as chemists develop new formulas. The Senate bill calls for the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection to update the list of prohibited chemicals every three years. DEP would do so in consultation with the state's Toxics Use Reduction Institute and the Science Advisory Board, and would identify newly-developed chemicals and promulgate new rules within nine months of identification. The full prohibited chemical list would be updated every three years.

DiDomenico previously voted to pass this legislation in 2016.  This is the second time the Senate has considered and passed the bill. It will now be sent to the House of Representatives for further action.

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