Some Minnesota moms were among those who went to Washington D.C. this week to demand a new law to regulate the toxic chemicals that pervade all kinds of consumer products, from furniture to pillow cases. Called the Stroller Brigade, their determination was fueled by an impressive investigative series published this month by the Chicago Tribune called "Playing With Fire." It details purposeful deception and lax federal oversight all in the name of toxic chemicals that aren't effective.
Government scientists found that chairs containing flame retardants, like the one being tested above, burn just as fast as identical chairs without them. (Consumer Products Safety Commission / May 5, 2012)
The chemicals have been linked to neurological defects, cancer, developmental problems and impaired fertility.
Democratic members of Congress and consumer groups have been pushing to pass the Safe Chemicals Act, which would create a new process to monitor toxic chemicals used in consumer products. But at this point, the bill, which is opposed by the chemical industry, has no Republican sponsors.
