AUGUSTA (AP) — Maine Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Patricia Aho is expected to make a ruling this week about proposed regulations of household chemicals in the state.
The proposal focuses on products targeting children younger than 12. It would elevate four phthalates from “high concern” to “priority chemical” status under state rules. A spokesman for the commissioner says she will make her decision by Friday.
Manufacturers would need to report use of the chemicals in products sold in Maine under the proposal. Phthalates are used in products like raincoats and personal care items. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says some types of phthalates have affected reproductive systems in lab animals.
Opponents say the state’s proposal leaves pregnant women under-informed about which products contain the chemicals.
Comments are not available on this story. Read more about why we allow commenting on some stories and not on others.
We believe it's important to offer commenting on certain stories as a benefit to our readers. At its best, our comments sections can be a productive platform for readers to engage with our journalism, offer thoughts on coverage and issues, and drive conversation in a respectful, solutions-based way. It's a form of open discourse that can be useful to our community, public officials, journalists and others.
We do not enable comments on everything — exceptions include most crime stories, and coverage involving personal tragedy or sensitive issues that invite personal attacks instead of thoughtful discussion.
You can read more here about our commenting policy and terms of use. More information is also found on our FAQs.
Show less