Chicago is now closer to banning the sale of baby products made with Bisphenol A. A city council committee Monday voted to prohibit baby bottles and sippy cups made with the chemical. Some manufacturers use BPA to harden plastic. Alderman Manny Flores is a co-sponsor of the ordinance.
FLORES:It's a very big win and I think it sets a very positive standard for other jurisdictions that are evaluating and considering similar legislation.
Some researchers say the chemical can cause medical problems, including cancer. But industry representatives say BPA is safe. Doctor Steven Hendges is a member of the American Chemistry Council.
HENDGES: Based on the full weight of scientific evidence the consensus among regulatory bodies around the world is that Bisphenol A is not a health risk and that includes the health of infants and children.
The full city council will consider the ordinance Wednesday. Alderman Flores says if it passes, stores will have to stop selling bottles and cups with BPA by January 31, 2010.