WASHINGTON, June 8, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — “We applaud Congress for passing this historic bill that will keep Americans safe from dangerous chemicals found in everyday household products,” said Dr. Jane L. Delgado, President and CEO of the National Alliance for Hispanic Health, the nation’s leading Hispanic health advocacy group. “For too long the chemical industry has used its influence to prevent these common sense protections. We know that exposure to toxic chemicals can lead to cancer and other illnesses, and this new regulation prioritizes consumer safety. This victory, which has been decades in the making, is worthy of celebration,” she added.
The Alliance, a leader in environmental protection efforts for consumers since its inception, praised the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act, which was overwhelmingly passed with bipartisan support by the House last month and the Senate yesterday, and is expected to be signed by the President into law. The Alliance has long advocated for an overhaul of the 1976 Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), which governs the use of chemicals created and used in numerous products. This modernization would ensure that the tens of thousands of toxic chemical substances introduced since the Act was made law will also come under EPA review and be subject to regulation before going onto the market.
“After ten years of debate and many unsuccessful attempts we are thrilled that the 40-year-old TSCA is getting the critical update it needs. For consumers who come into contact with cleaning and other chemical products in their homes – which is the vast majority of the general public – as well as those who work in the hospitality, agriculture, construction and manufacturing industries, this new regulation could not come soon enough. This effort by Congress will provide added protections for people where they live and work and goes a long way toward ensuring good health for Hispanics and all communities.”
The Alliance announced that until this law goes into effect, consumers can contact its bilingual Su Familia Helpline at 1-866-783-2645 for guidance on safe household products, or visit its Nuestras Voces National Hispanic Network to Reduce Tobacco-Related and Cancer Disparities at www.nuestrasvoces.org to learn more about cancer prevention.
About the National Alliance for Hispanic Health (The Alliance)
The Alliance is the nation’s foremost science-based source of information and trusted advocate for the best health outcomes for all. For more information, visit http://www.hispanichealth.org or call the Alliance’s Su Familia National Hispanic Family Health Helpline at 1-866-783-2645.
Nuestras Voces (Our Voices) Network
Nuestras Voces is a national network of over 100 organizations working for a tobacco-free world and to eliminate disparities in cancer prevention and treatment services. You can be part of this effort being led by the National Alliance for Hispanic Health! Join us at www.nuestrasvoces.org/join.
