Lawmakers Reject Measure to Ban Controversial Chemical

The California Assembly has rejected a measure that would have banned the controversial chemical bisphenol A from baby bottles. Supporters say lawmakers missed a golden opportunity to protect young children. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.

The chemical, known as BPA , is found in baby bottles, can liners, and food containers. It can leech into liquids and foods.

The measure would have banned it in products designed for children under the age of three.   

The chemical industry says BPA has a long history of safe use.

Ansje Miller is with the non-profit Center for Environmental Health.

Ansje Miller : Well, there's 130 studies out there that show otherwise, that there's a staggering number of health effects affiliated with BPA exposures.

A government report says there is some concern for neural and behavioral effects of BPA in fetuses and infants.

A number of other states are considering banning the chemical.

Kenny Goldberg, KPBS News.