State Representative Chris Perone (D-Norwalk) announced that seconds before the end of the 2010 state legislative session, the legislature unanimously approved nationally significant restrictions on cadmium in children's jewelry.
“The legislature’s unanimous approval will ensure that Connecticut’s children are safer,” said Rep. Perone. “Cadmium is a poison, and it is simply deplorable that were permitting our children to be exposed to this cancer causing metal.”
The legislation (HB 5314) passed the Connecticut House of Representatives last week unanimously (144-0), despite vocal opposition from Wal-Mart, the Toy Industry Association, the Fashion Jewelry Trade Association, and the American Chemistry Council. The State Senate sent an amended version of the bill back to the House just an hour before midnight, and members of the House were able to squeeze it in as the very last bill of the evening. The bill establishes a health-protective, 75 part-per-million limit on the amount of cadmium allowed in children's jewelry beginning in 2014.
At a time when consumers are increasingly demanding safe, green products and with increasingly stringent chemical regulations being implemented in other countries, the Institute will help in-state businesses thrive. Housed at the University of Connecticut Health Center, the Institute will promote safer alternatives to toxic chemicals and will help with ensuring access to international markets for Connecticut-manufactured products.
"We are thrilled that the legislature has taken action to stimulate our state's green economy and help protect our health and the environment at the same time," said Sarah Uhl, who works for Clean Water Action to coordinate the Coalition that backed the legislation. "These two bills keep Connecticut at the forefront of the chemical policy reforms that are long overdo in this country."
The Coalition for a Safe & Healthy Connecticut, which supported the legislation, is made up of over 50 organizations representing health professionals, workers, nurses, businesses, environmentalists, occupational safety advocates, people of faith, and individuals whose health has been impacted by toxic chemicals.
