Toxic-Free Kids Act

Republicans hew to the position of the chemical and toy industry, who oppose state regulations that would make them stop importing toys made with potentially hazardous chemicals from loosely guarded Chinese factories. The GOP leaders claimed they’d support a bill that only makes companies report the use of these chemicals, but defeated earlier efforts when such a compromise was offered.

The proposed Oregon law would copy a Washington law on disclosure but then strengthen it to phase out hazardous chemicals in children’s products and replace them with safer alternatives. SB 478 maintains bipartisan support in the House and the increased Democratic majority should allow the bill to over-rule Sen. Betsy Johnson, a friend of the chemistry council who opposes the bill.