"WASHINGTON -- Moms, a few dads and some children gathered at the Capitol on Tuesday to urge Congress to strengthen the federal government's powers to regulate harmful chemicals."

"The group of almost a hundred activists, which included registered nurses and cancer survivors, came from across the country to support the Safe Chemicals Act, which if passed by Congress would create a new process to monitor toxic chemicals used in consumer products.

The chemicals, which are common in furniture and baby products, have been linked to neurological defects, cancer, developmental problems and impaired fertility.

The chemical industry has argued for decades that flame retardants save lives, but its claims are based on a few small studies. Activists say the chemicals do little to protect consumers from fires."

Ian Duncan reports for the Los Angeles Times May 23, 2012. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"National Stroller Brigade: Moms Descend On Congress To Urge Toxic Chemical Reform" (Huffington Post) [3]