Alaska State Legislation
Tired of waiting for long overdue federal policy reform, many states are taking the lead in passing protective chemical policies. Alaska is no exception and Alaska Community Action on Toxics is playing a leading role in these policy reform efforts through grassroots organizing.
We provide technical assistance to state legislators who are working on a number of chemicals policy reform bills that, if passed, would reduce Alaskans’ exposure to harmful chemicals currently not regulated by the federal government.
Current Legislative Priority:
Senate Bill 27 and House Bill 63: Ban Toxic Flame Retardants - Fact Sheet 
Visit our Take Action Center for current actions for safer chemical policy.
Speak Up:
- Contact your Alaska State legislators: Senators, Representatives.
- Or send a short 50 word Public Opinion Message.
Preventing Toxic Exposures
This bill would phase out the sale of polybrominated diphenyl ethers, or (PBDEs), a type of flame retardant which has been linked to adverse health effects. PBDEs are used in many consumer products such as TV and computer casings, upholstery, textiles, mattresses, and foams. There are many safer alternatives to harmful PBDEs that do not compromise fire safety.
PBDEs are linked to a wide range of health effects, including:
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Adverse developmental affects such as impaired learning and memory function and impaired motor activity;
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Thyroid disruption;
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Adverse reproductive effects such as low birth weight, birth defects, and reduced sperm count.
The Preventing Toxic Exposures bill (SB 27) will:
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End in-state sales of TVs, computers, mattresses and residential upholstered furniture containing the toxic flame retardant by 2013.
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Direct the Department of Environmental Conservation to participate in a multistate chemicals clearinghouse to:
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Build capacity to identify and promote safer chemicals and products;
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Enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of state initiatives on chemicals through collaboration and coordination;
- Ensure that state agencies, businesses, and the public have easy access to high quality and authoritative information on chemicals.
Take Action:
Contact your state legislator and tell him/her that you support the bill.
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Contact your Alaska State legislators: Senators, Representatives.
Download the text of the Preventing Toxic Exposures bill
SB 27 History/Action for 27th Legislature
Download our PBDEs fact sheet
Creating Healthy Schools
ACAT is working with legislators on a bill that would reduce the exposure of Alaskan children to toxic chemicals in school buildings and on school grounds where children spend a large portion of their time.
Contact your state legislator and tell him/her that you support the bill.
Fact sheets on chemicals that affect learning and development:
