Mary Lou Dickerson was a main proponent in safe toy legislation she sponsored in the Legislature which was passed signed into law by Gov. Christine Gregoire.

The Washington state Democrat who represents Ballard, sponsored the Children's Safe Products legislation.

"This should be a top priority for our federal government," said Gregoire on signing the bill. "It should set safe standards for children's products sold across the (United States). However, the toy recalls from last year make it clear. We can't wait any longer for the federal government to take action. For these reasons, I am pleased to sign legislation that will lead to high standards for toys and other children's products sold in Washington State. Our children need and deserve nothing less."

Dickerson said the Legislature was hoping the federal government would "step up to the plate" to better protect children from these harmful products.

"The state is taking action now," said Dickerson. "Children cannot afford to wait for a government unresponsive to their health care concerns."

The governor noted, "Nothing is more important than the health and safety of our children. The toys and products we give them must meet the highest possible standards of product safety. Parents, doctors, public officials, toy makers and retailers in Washington all share these goals."

Twenty-nine states have passed or are considering toxic toy legislation.

There have been 20 million recalls of toys made in China and other countries, including the United States.

"There are toy manufactures all across the U.S., including Washington state. We currently don't if know that what they are making is safe," said Dickerson.

Last June, a coalition was formed to write a bill on toxic cosmetics. The group decided to focus instead on chemical toxins in toys.

The coalition included: the Washington Toxics Coalition; the American Academy of Pediatrics; Washington State Nurses Association; children's care providers; League of Women Voters; Physicians for Social Responsibility; Washington Medical Association; and others.

"We did the research and talked with the American Academy of Pediatrics about safe levels of chemicals in children's products," said Dickerson.

A Washington Toxics coalition has tested 1,200 toys and found 80 percent to be lead free. It's the remaining 20 percent that has people worried.

According to the American Academy of pediatrics, lead, cadmium and phthalates are chemicals of most concern.

The chemicals can affect children's rapid growth and development of body systems, according to the bill.

Lead exposure in young kids can lead to learning difficulties and reduced growth. It can cause decreased mental abilities in infants.

Cadmium is used in batteries, pigments, metal coatings and plastics that are found in children's products.

Kidney disease, lung damage and fragile bones can result from long-term, low level exposure to cadmium.

Phthalates are used to increase flexibility, durability and the lifespan of plastics, according to the bill. Pharmaceutical products, plastic bags, toys, vinyl flooring, nail polish, shampoo and hair spray contain phthalates.

"There have been human health studies exploring the possible associations between phthalates and developmental and reproduction outcomes. However, the effects of phthalates are not yet fully known," according to the bill.

In addition to the provision on lead, cadmium and phthalates, the Washington State Department of Ecology must identify other high priority chemicals harmful to children by next January.

"Manufacturers need to let the state know if products contain those chemicals and to advise the Department of Ecology how they might develop a list and how they can meet the regulations and protect children's health," said Dickerson.

There is a great deal of misinformation on the toxic toys issue.

Despite reports in Seattle media about Ballard's Archie McPhee being affected by the bill, Dickerson said the store has nothing to worry about. The store sells novelty items for an adult market.

"The bill is directed at children at play," said Dickerson.

The toys targeted would be for children under 12 years old.

The governor will put together an advisory group of children's advocates, doctors, toxicologists, manufacturers and toy store representatives or owners to guide the bill's implementation and develop additional legislation.

The bill's summary states that after July 1, 2009, no person may manufacture, knowingly sell, offer for sale, or distribute children's products containing certain levels of the three chemicals.

Manufacturers must be file reports annually and with the name of the chemical, product description, function and amount of chemical. They must recall and reimburse the retailer of any prohibited product. Violations to the provisions will result in penalties not exceeding $5,000 for the first offense and $10,000 for each repeat offense.

The bill has received strong support.

"People understand the necessity to protect kids from nasty chemicals," said Dickerson. "I'm really proud of Washington State taking the lead to protect children's health."

Many people have contacted the governor's office with their concerns on the toxic toys issue. More have called and emailed than on the issue of the keeping the Seattle Sonics in Seattle, said Dickerson.

Dean Wong may be reached at deanw@robinsonnews.com