PBDE ban passes state Senate

Good news from Olympia today:

The Washington State Legislature has passed the nation's first ban on all forms of the toxic flame retardants known as PBDEs. The Senate passed ESHB 1024, sponsored by Rep. Ross Hunter (D-Medina), by a 41 to 8 margin at noon today. Senator Debbie Regala (D-Tacoma) sponsored the companion bill in the Senate.

"Washington state is leading the way for improving the health and safety of our children," said Hunter, who has sponsored the legislation for three years. "We've come up with a common-sense strategy for preserving fire safety while getting rid of chemicals like PBDEs that build up in our environment, in our bodies, and even in mothers' breast milk."

ESHB 1024 is the first one of the four Priorities for a Healthy Washington to reach Governor Christine Gregoire, who is expected to sign it. Laurie Valeriano, Policy Director for the Washington Toxics Coalition, said of today's victory:

"With the passage of this legislation, Washington is a safer place to raise children. Scientific facts and disease prevention won out today over chemical industry scare tactics and hype."

Thanks to all our readers who lobbied to pass this bill. Your efforts paid off.