Proposed BPA regulation doesn't offer enough protection
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health's Public Health Council (PHC) met this morning to hear a presentation on the limited phase-out of BPA that Governor Patrick has directed. As we expected, DPH staff proposed a limited ban on reusable food and beverage containers containing BPA and intended for use by children three and under, which would mean baby bottles and sippy cups. PHC members asked some questions of DPH staff, but have not yet recommend further action.
The DPH staff members made it very clear that this limited proposal is based on direction from Governor Patrick.
They also acknowledged that this proposal would not change the marketplace, as safer alternatives to the products included are already available.
The public comment period for the proposed regulation will begin soon and ends June 30. The governor and DPH need to hear that Massachusetts residents want real protection from BPA for developing fetuses and growing children. The official start date for the public comment period has not been set yet, but we will let you know how to participate when the time comes.
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