Alarming cancer statistics have been making waves with scientists and environmentalists to re-examine chemical safety. According to the National Cancer Institute, about 41 percent of Americans will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime, and approximately 21 percent will die from it. In 2009 alone, about 1.5 million new cancer cases were diagnosed in the U.S.  With over 700 new chemicals introduced each year, its hard to  believe there is no law requiring companies to demonstrate that the new chemicals are safe to the public.  However, there is an related Act called the Toxics Substances Control Act of 1976, which many believe to be  ineffective.  Last month, three different state representatives got together to propose new legislation that would keep harmful chemicals out of our air, food, water and consumer products.

The Safe Chemicals Act of 2010 would update the Toxics Substances Control Act of 1976.   Since 1976, the toxic substances act has resulted in only 200 chemicals (out of 80,000) in circulation being assessed for safety. Out of that 80,000  only five chemicals are currently being restricted for use.  This legislation could phase out some of the most dangerous chemicals such as lead,  PBTs such as mercury (present in light bulbs and power plant emissions) and formaldehyde should be phased out of commerce except for critical uses.  We will keep you updated if this legislation goes through! For more information..The Baltimore Sun has a complete story.

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