Connecticut’s State House of Representatives has recently passed a bill to restrict flame-retardants in children’s products and upholstered furniture. If signed into the law, the new restrictions will take effect in two phases beginning July 1, 2018.

The five flame retardants, that will be restricted in Connecticut’s bill, Substitute HB 5299, are listed below:

1. Decabromodiphenyl ether (Deca-BDE)
2. Hexabromocylododecane (HBCDD)
3. Tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) 
4. Tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCP/TDCPP)
5. Tris(1-chloro2-propyl) phosphate (TCPP)

According to the proposed bill, a children’s product is defined as a “product designed or intended primarily for children aged 12 and younger” such as changing pads, clothing, crib mattresses, strollers, and toys. The proposal’s language does not include consmer electronics, and certain children’s toys.

There will be two effective dates to comply with the law:

- July 1, 2018 for manufacturers

- July 1, 2019 for distributors, retailers, and wholesalers

If this bill is eventually signed into law, Connecticut will join a host of states such as Washington, in restricting or banning flame retardants in consumer products. 

News courtesy of SGS