A group of parents, doctors, and public health advocates has petitioned the Maine Department of Environmental Protection to consider requiring manufacturers to report use of certain chemicals used in plastics.

The group delivered 2,071 petitions Wednesday in Augusta.

The chemicals, called phthalates, are often called “plasticizers” and are used to make plastics more flexible and durable. They are used in products like vinyl flooring, plastic clothes and personal care products.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says some types of phthalates have affected reproductive systems of lab animals and more research is needed to assess effects on human health.

The group said in a statement that current rules “fail to protect pregnant women.”


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