Reducing Californians' Exposure to Toxic Chemicals By Banning Brominated and Chlorinated Fire Retardants

So, now that we know these chemicals are in us, what will they do to us? Unfortunately the growing body of research is chilling, to say the least. Studies link exposure to low concentrations of certain fire retardants to cancer and birth defects. Additionally, they can cause reproductive problems, disrupt thyroid hormone balance and contribute to a variety of neurological and developmental deficits, including low intelligence and learning disabilities. All of which is particularly frightening considering exposure to these chemicals begins in the womb, then through breast milk, and continually thereafter through dust from our upholstered furniture and other sources.

Firefighters are also disproportionately affected. As the fire retardants in furniture burn, they convert into even more toxic chemicals such as dioxin that are released into smoke and soot. Recently, our own San Francisco Firefighters held a press conference to increase public awareness of their many firefighter colleagues whose lives have been cut short due to cancer. Of the 35 San Francisco active duty firefighters that have contracted job-related cancers in the last eight years, 15 of them have died. Also, in the last ten years, 215 of our retired San Francisco firefighters have contracted cancer and 25 of them have died.

When the State Legislature banned two brominated fire retardant chemicals in 2003, the chemical industry response was to replace them with chlorinated tris in our furniture. This is the same chemical that was banned from children’s pajamas over 30 years ago. With safer alternatives already on the market that meet our fire safety standards and create new economic opportunities for green chemistry, it’s clear we can do better. In fact, AB 706 may become a strong tool in increasing the fire safety of our furniture.

Because most chemicals are presumed safe until proven otherwise, it’s our job to take the scientists and the studies seriously when they warn us of the risks that may be associated with them. Study after study show the dangers of brominated and chlorinated fire retardants. We can’t wait any longer to protect our kids and our workers from potentially dangerous exposure to toxic chemicals.

If you would like more information about my work in creating a safer environment for each of us, and in particular supporting our brave men and women in the firefighting community, please feel free to contact my office here in San Francisco, 415-557-3013, email me directly at Assemblymember.Leno@asm.ca.gov, or visit my website.

Assemblymmeber Mark Leno represents the 13th District, which encompasses the eastern portion of San Francisco.