WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State House Democrats

HOUSE DEMOCRATS

Statement from Rep. Kevin Van De Wege on House passage of the Toxic-Free Kids and Families Act

Rep. Kevin Van De Wege, D-24 Aaron Barna
Rep. Kevin Van De Wege, D-24

“For the third time, a majority of the state House agreed that we don’t have to choose between our families’ health and their safety.

The Toxic-Free Kids and Families Act bans the use of six different toxic chemicals found in common household products under the veil of ‘fire safety’. This list includes Tris – a known carcinogen. Studies show that these chemicals actually make household fires more lethal by increasing the toxicity in the smoke inhaled by firefighters, first responders and victims. Today, this legislation passed the House with strong bipartisan support.

Over the past three years the Senate has failed to consider this legislation in any serious manner. In the meantime, these toxic chemicals continue have detrimental health effects on our families, first responders and firefighters.

I can’t comprehend why they would choose to waste another day before passing this legislation – especially when we know that there are safe, non-toxic ways to meet our fire safety standards.”