Last Thursday, New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo signed legislation that expands the ban on the sale of products containing TRIS, a cancer-causing chemical used as a flame retardant.
“No parent should have to second guess whether the toy or car seat they buy for their child is safe,” Governor Cuomo says. “This new law will not only provide additional protections for young children, it gives peace of mind to parents who will now know that common childcare products purchased in New York will not contain this dangerous chemical.”
This new law, A4741/S3703-B, expands the definition of TRIS to include an additional chemical, TDCPP (Tris (1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate), from being used in toys, baby products, and other consumer child care products, including items intended for children under three years of age. Alternative flame retardants are available as a substitute for TRIS.
The new law builds upon legislation Governor Cuomo signed in 2011, which expanded the number of prohibited flame retardant chemicals.