State House Passes flame retardant ban

In a great show of bipartisan support, the Michigan House of Representatives passed a ban (HB 4699) on deca-BDE, a toxic flame retardant, by a vote of 94-6 today.Environmental and health groups praised the passage of HB 4699, which will ban the use of deca-BDE in Michigan. This toxic substance has been linked to developmental problems, cancer, and thyroid problems. Citizens are exposed to this dangerous chemical in electronics, furniture, carseats, and many more everyday items. Safe alternatives to deca-BDE exist, and this legislation is long overdue. Michigan LCV hopes that Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop will take this issue up quickly, and set aside the patisan politics that too often prevent quality legislation like this from moving through the Senate and to the Governor's desk.