Legislative Updates: In Brief
The end of the legislative session is always lively. While things are changing by the minute, here’s a snapshot of where things stand with the public interest bills on the eve of the session’s close.
Toxics & Environmental Health
Toxic Jewelry Study
Jewelry being sold in Vermont stores contains alarming levels of toxic chemicals including lead, cadmium, nickel and arsenic, according to a study conducted by The Ecology Center, a Michigan-based nonprofit environmental organization that conducts product testing for hazardous ingredients in items average American families use daily. Many of the products tested are aimed at children. …
News Release: Alarming Levels of Lead, Cadmium, and Nickel Found in Vermont Jewelry
For Immediate Release: March 13, 2012 Montpelier, VT – Jewelry being sold in Vermont stores contains alarming levels of toxic chemicals including lead, cadmium, nickel and arsenic, according to a new study. Many of the products tested are aimed at children. The chemicals found in the jewelry have been linked to acute allergies, birth defects, …
News Release: Alarming Levels of Lead, Cadmium, and Nickel Found in Vermont Jewelry Read More »
News Release: Vermont Legislature Passes School “Green” Cleaning Bill
On Thursday, the Senate gave final approval to S.92, a bill that requires manufacturers and distributors of cleaning products to only sell environmentally preferable cleaning products to schools. The bill will now make its way to the Governor’s desk for his signature.
“This legislation will create safer and healthier learning environments in our schools,” said Charity Carbine-March, environmental health advocate for Vermont Public Interest Research Group (VPIRG). “Children in classrooms across Vermont will soon be breathing easier.”
Bills to Watch in 2012 – Environmental Health
Our advocates are following these bills and we’ll keep you posted on opportunities to take action. Find the bill language by clicking the title.
Legislative Preview: What’s on the Docket for 2012?
We continue to work toward building a clean, renewable, reliable energy future for our state. VPIRG is working to pass a bill ensuring that a greater portion of your electricity comes from renewable sources. And, with 50% of Vermont’s electricity already coming from clean energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower, our goal, of an additional 30% more by 2025, is well within our reach.
VPIRG’s 2011 Trouble in Toyland Report
In addition to our work to make all products safer, every year VPIRG releases our annual Trouble in Toyland report highlighting potential hazards in children’s toys. This year Trouble in Toyland, along with an interactive tool accessible via smart phone or computer at http://toysafety.mobi, will help parents and other toy-buyers avoid some common hazards this holiday-shopping season.
Toy Safety Shopping Tips
Take this Toy Safety Shopping Guide along with you when heading out on your holiday shopping trip. This brochure summarizes what to look out for including toxics, choking and noise hazards, and more.
VPIRG Releases 26th Annual Trouble in Toyland Report
Dangerous or toxic toys can still be found on America’s store shelves, according to the Vermont Public Interest Research Group’s (VPIRG’s) 26th annual Trouble in Toyland report.
The report reveals the results of laboratory testing on toys for lead and phthalates, both of which have been proven to have serious adverse health impacts on the development of young children. The survey also found toys that pose either choking or noise hazards.
Understanding the Environmental Health Implications of Tropical Storm Irene
Many challenging public and environmental health questions arose following Tropical Storm Irene. This fact sheet includes resources and information about mold, soil, water and air quality implications following the flood.