Toxic-Free Firefighters and Children Act 2019

Posted on: December 20, 2019
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Protecting Alaska’s firefighters and children from exposure to toxic chemicals – how you can help!

Thanks to Representatives Geran Tarr (D-Anc) and Harriet Drummond (D-Anc), who are co-sponsors of the Toxic-Free Firefighters and Children Act, Alaska will have an opportunity to join 43 other states and cities (including Anchorage) that have or will soon have legislation to protect their firefighters and children from the harmful effects of chemical flame retardants.

The Toxic-Free Firefighters and Children Act (HB 27) is a state bill that would ban the entire class of organohalogen, organophosphorus, and organonitrogen flame retardant chemicals from children’s toys, products, and furniture.

Currently, chemicals used to make products such as toys and furniture are not regulated or tested for safety. These chemicals harm our health. They have significant health effects, including learning and developmental disabilities, cancers, and reproductive impairment. Children are especially vulnerable. Firefighters also have higher exposures and suffer health disparities as a result of their exposures.

As Alaskans, there are many specific reasons why this issue is important:

  • Due to wind and ocean currents, Alaskans are exposed to higher levels of toxic chemicals.
  • Chemicals in household products are linked to cancer, miscarriages, and birth defects.
  • Persistent synthetic chemicals contaminate fish, wildlife, and people.

For more information:

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