Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Available On Air Stations
Watch Live

Bill Would Eliminate Dangerous Chemicals From Kids' Toys

The California Assembly passed a bill that would phase out the use of a dangerous chemical found in kids toys. KPBS reporter Ed Joyce has more.

Bill Would Eliminate Dangerous Chemicals From Kids' Toys

The California Assembly passed a bill that would phase out the use of a dangerous chemical found in kids toys. KPBS reporter Ed Joyce has more.

They're called phthalates: a chemical added to PVC plastic to make it soft and flexible. But the chemical leaches out of plastic toys such as teething rings or other baby products when young children suck on them.

Advertisement

Dan Jacobson with Environment California says that's when the danger starts.

Jacobson : They basically pretend that they're a hormone once they enter into your body. And the reason it's a real concern from kids when they're born to the age of three is that's when your system is really starting to develop, and any interference with chemicals that are going to mimic a hormone are incredibly dangerous.

He says those dangers include causing reproductive and genital defects. Exposure to the chemical has also been linked to premature birth and early onset of puberty. The bill now moves to the state Senate.

Ed Joyce, KPBS News.