WASHINGTON — Congressional negotiators agreed Monday to a ban on a family of toxics found in children’s products, handing a major victory to parents and health experts who have been clamoring for the government to remove harmful chemicals from toys.
The ban, which would take effect in six months, reflects a growing body of scientific research showing that children ingest the toxics by acts as simple as chewing on a rubber duck.
It also signals an important crack in the chemical industry’s ability to fend off federal regulation.
White House spokesman Tony Fratto said President Bush opposes the ban but that it is too early to say whether he will veto the measure.
Under language finalized Monday, House and Senate lawmakers agreed to permanently ban three types of phthalates from children’s toys and to outlaw three other phthalates from products pending an extensive study of their health effects in children and pregnant women.
Phthalates make plastics softer and more durable and are added to perfumes, lotions, shampoos and other items.
In other government action focused on children, the Federal Trade Commission is to release a report today showing that the nation’s largest food and beverage companies spent about $1.6 billion in 2006 marketing their products to children. About a third of that amount was dedicated to promoting carbonated drinks.
The report stems from lawmakers’ concern about growing obesity rates in children. It gives researchers new insight into how much companies are spending to attract youth to their products, and what venues the companies are using for their marketing.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
