Congress Weighs Ban Of Chemical Used In Plastics

Tag : Plastic Product Development

Morning Edition , July 29, 2008 · Lawmakers on Monday moved toward banning phthalates, a type ofchemical used as plastic softeners and found in all kinds ofchildren's toys. Consumer groups say the chemical can harmchildren's reproductive development and cause other healthproblems.
Companies that make the chemical say the science is weak. Still,Congress is considering banning three types of phthalates, andtemporarily banning three others pending further study.
The move is part of a broader bill that still needs a vote; thebill would overhaul the nation's product safety laws in the wake oflast year's wave of toy recalls.