News Coverage
Bill to phase out hazardous flame retardants gains committee OK
Published March 26, 2004
AUGUSTA, Maine - Bills to phase out toxic materials used in fire retardants and increase the number of sites where Mainers can recycle mercury thermostats gained momentum as Environmental Health Day was marked Wednesday in the State House.
Both bills have won unanimous support of the Natural Resources Committee. Gov. John Baldacci on Wednesday encouraged legislative passage of those and a third bill, still in committee, that encourages recycling of used televisions and computer monitors.
The governor sought to link environmental protection with public health issues as he lent his support to the three bills given high priority by environmental advocates.
On Monday, the Natural Resources Committee voted 12-0 to support the bill addressing toxics in fire retardants found in upholstery, carpets, mattresses, plastics and electronics. The legislation seeks to replace toxic bromides with safer alternatives.
Laboratory tests link some chemicals in flame retardants to neurological damage and permanent memory loss.
Tests detected higher concentrations of decabrominated diphenyl ether, or Deca, in women