Originally published July 12 2005
Bill seeks to warn consumers of cancer-causing cosmetics
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
In an effort to eliminate the use of known carcinogens in cosmetic products, Sen. Carole Migden, D-San Francisco, has proposed a bill that, if passed in California, will require cosmetic manufacturers to provide a list of all known cancer-causing chemicals in their products to the Department of Health Services, which may then post the information online for consumer access.
Usually the biggest concern when buying lipstick or nail polish is picking out the right color.
But a bill that advanced in the Legislature on Tuesday could allow consumers to check online to see if their favorite beauty products contain cancer-causing chemicals.
Carole Migden, D-San Francisco, would require cosmetic manufacturers to report to the state Department of Health Services all ingredients in their products that may cause cancer or birth defects.
She said men and women use beauty products every day that may over time cause lasting health problems, and people who work in beauty salons are at risk.
During the two-hour hearing, manufacturers and salon owners filled the committee room to testify against the bill, which they believe is unnecessary and would hurt small-business owners.
Earlier this year the health committee killed a bill that would have banned the sale of cosmetics containing phthalates.
Under the terms of the bill, manufacturers would have to provide the Department of Health Services with a list of known carcinogens in their products.
The Division of Occupational Safety and Health would also determine whether workplace rules should be established to protect workers who are exposed to the chemicals to protect them against cancer or possible birth defects.
"I worked for 20 years to get where I am today, and I would never jeopardize my customers or my business by selling products that are not safe," said Melinda Fox, owner of two Merle Norman cosmetic studios in Southern California.
Rebecca Gadberry, owner of a company that manufactures beauty products, said her business has been growing, but the cost to comply would force her to reconsider expanding or staying in the state.
Assemblyman Keith Richman, who is a doctor, said he is concerned about the lack of information about the level of carcinogens needed to cause health problems.
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