I work for the Learning Disabilities of Maine and am the proud mom of a child with autism. No child should be exposed to chemicals that cause cancer, reproductive problems, or learning disabilities. Sadly, children face serious health threats every day from toxic chemicals in household products that are linked to these health problems and so many others. The broken Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 has allowed almost all 80,000 chemicals in commerce to enter the market without any safety review. Under this law, only four chemicals have ever been banned.

We need reform that truly protects our health from toxic chemicals. The good news is that Congress finally agrees that reform is long overdue. Unfortunately, the bill (S.697) before the US Senate would take at least eight years to only review 25 chemicals. Worse, the bill would prevent states from taking action on chemicals while the federal government is reviewing them. In Maine, the Kid Safe Product Act of 2008 allows our state to keep families safe from the worst of the worst chemicals. We shouldn’t limit Maine’s authority to act while the federal government continues to delay action.

A better bill (HR 2576) just passed the House almost unanimously; while not perfect, it preserves state authority to take action on toxic chemicals, and would review a greater number of chemicals for safety in a shorter timeframe than the Senate bill.

Congress should work off of the House reform bill, and add the stronger elements of the Senate bill to it. Our Senators, Susan Collins and Angus King, will be key to ensuring the passage of real reform. Now is our chance to get this right to secure a healthier future for our children.

Tracy Gregoire,

Topsham