Safe Baby Bottle Act of 2009
(SSB 5282) - Download Fact Sheet as PDF
More and more evidence shows that the chemical bisphenol A (BPA) is harmful to children’s health. Yet manufacturers can still legally use BPA in products such as baby bottles, infant formula cans, and other food containers. The National Toxicology Program has expressed concern about BPA because “we see developmental changes occurring in some animal studies at BPA exposure levels similar to those experienced by humans.”
What Is BPA?
BPA was developed as a synthetic sex hormone but is now used in common household materials, including some clear, rigid plastic water bottles, baby bottles, reusable food containers, and food cans. It is one of the highest-volume chemicals produced in the world.
BPA Harms Children’s Health
Testing in 2007 by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) found 93 percent of Americans age 6 and up were exposed to BPA. Children in the study had the highest levels of BPA, followed by teens and adults.
BPA is a hormone-disrupting chemical that can have health effects at extremely low exposure levels. Laboratory studies have linked BPA to cancer, miscarriage, obesity, reproductive problems, and hyperactivity.
There Is A Better Way
Fortunately, it is possible to make bottles and other food containers without BPA. Companies such as Nalgene, Playtex, and Eden foods have all started using BPA-free alternatives. Wal-Mart and Toys “R” Us have also pledged to stop selling baby bottles containing BPA.
In 2008, Canada became the first government in the world to conclude BPA is hazardous to human health, and to announce plans to ban BPA in baby bottles. Many states will consider legislation to eliminate BPA from children’s products in 2009, including Oregon, California, Minnesota, New York, Connecticut, and Maine.
Washington Must Continue To Lead
Washington State has established itself as a national leader in protecting children from toxic chemicals. Last year, it enacted the nation’s strongest standards for toxic chemicals in toys. This leadership directly led to the U.S. Congress passing legislation banning lead and phthalates in children’s toys.
We can’t stop now! Please support SHB 1180/SB 5282, the Safe Baby Bottle Act of 2009!
The Safe Baby Bottle Act of 2009 SSB 5282
Specifically, the Safe Baby Bottle Act of 2009 does the following:
- Protects children’s health by prohibiting the use of BPA in baby bottles and children’s food containers.
- The bill prohibits the sale or manufacture of food and beverage containers containing BPA that are intended for children under 3, such as baby bottles and sippy cups, beginning July 1, 2010.
- The bill also prohibits the sale of sports water bottles containing BPA beginning July 1, 2010.
- Does not prohibit the use of BPA in any food cans sold with food or beverages in them.
Washington State has the opportunity to continue leading the nation in protecting our children and the environment from harmful toxic chemicals by eliminating BPA from baby bottles and other food containers. Please support SHB 1180/ SB 5282, the Safe Baby Bottle Act of 2009!
For More Information Contact: Laurie Valeriano, 206-632-1545 x114
Ivy Sager-Rosenthal, 206-632-1545 x122
Nick Federici, 360-481-1936
