03/09/2018 01:00 PM House RESOURCES
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| HB27 | |
| HB355 | |
| HB330 | |
| Adjourn |
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| *+ | HB 27 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | HB 330 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
| += | HB 355 | TELECONFERENCED | |
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
HOUSE RESOURCES STANDING COMMITTEE
March 9, 2018
1:03 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Representative Andy Josephson, Co-Chair
Representative Geran Tarr, Co-Chair
Representative John Lincoln, Vice Chair
Representative Harriet Drummond
Representative Justin Parish
Representative Chris Birch
Representative George Rauscher
Representative David Talerico
MEMBERS ABSENT
Representative DeLena Johnson
Representative Mike Chenault (alternate)
Representative Chris Tuck (alternate)
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
HOUSE BILL NO. 27
"An Act relating to chemicals that are of high concern for
children and to the manufacture and sale of products containing
certain flame retardant chemicals; relating to an interstate
chemicals clearinghouse; adding an unlawful act to the Alaska
Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act; and
providing for an effective date."
- HEARD & HELD
HOUSE BILL NO. 355
"An Act relating to the crime of criminally negligent burning;
relating to protection of and fire management on forested land;
relating to prohibited acts and penalties for prohibited acts on
forested land; and providing for an effective date."
- MOVED CSHB 355(RES) OUT OF COMMITTEE
HOUSE BILL NO. 330
"An Act authorizing the commissioner of natural resources to
disclose confidential information in an investigation or
proceeding, including a lease royalty audit, appeal, or request
for reconsideration and issue a protective order limiting the
persons who have access to the confidential information."
- HEARD & HELD
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
BILL: HB 27
SHORT TITLE: HIGH-RISK CHEMICALS FOR CHILD EXPOSURE
SPONSOR(s): REPRESENTATIVE(s) TARR
01/18/17 (H) PREFILE RELEASED 1/9/17
01/18/17 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
01/18/17 (H) RES, L&C
03/09/18 (H) RES AT 1:00 PM BARNES 124
BILL: HB 355
SHORT TITLE: FIRE; FOREST LAND; CRIMES; FIRE PREVENTION
SPONSOR(s): REPRESENTATIVE(s) GUTTENBERG
02/16/18 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
02/16/18 (H) RES, JUD
02/28/18 (H) RES AT 1:00 PM BARNES 124
02/28/18 (H) Heard & Held
02/28/18 (H) MINUTE(RES)
02/28/18 (H) RES AT 6:00 PM BARNES 124
02/28/18 (H) Heard & Held
02/28/18 (H) MINUTE(RES)
03/05/18 (H) RES AT 1:00 PM BARNES 124
03/05/18 (H) Heard & Held
03/05/18 (H) MINUTE(RES)
03/09/18 (H) RES AT 1:00 PM BARNES 124
BILL: HB 330
SHORT TITLE: DNR: DISCLOSURE OF CONFIDENTIAL INFO
SPONSOR(s): RULES BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR
02/05/18 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
02/05/18 (H) JUD, RES
02/16/18 (H) JUD AT 1:00 PM GRUENBERG 120
02/16/18 (H) Heard & Held
02/16/18 (H) MINUTE(JUD)
02/21/18 (H) JUD AT 1:00 PM GRUENBERG 120
02/21/18 (H) Heard & Held
02/21/18 (H) MINUTE(JUD)
02/23/18 (H) JUD AT 1:30 PM GRUENBERG 120
02/23/18 (H) Heard & Held
02/23/18 (H) MINUTE(JUD)
02/26/18 (H) JUD AT 1:00 PM GRUENBERG 120
02/26/18 (H) Moved CSHB 330(JUD) Out of Committee
02/26/18 (H) MINUTE(JUD)
02/28/18 (H) JUD RPT CS NT 1DP 5NR 1AM
02/28/18 (H) DP: CLAMAN
02/28/18 (H) NR: EASTMAN, KOPP, STUTES, LEDOUX,
REINBOLD
02/28/18 (H) AM: KREISS-TOMKINS
03/09/18 (H) RES AT 1:00 PM BARNES 124
WITNESS REGISTER
VEENA SINGLA, Scientist; PhD
University of California San Francisco (UC San Francisco)
San Francisco, California
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support during discussion of
HB 27.
ALEX BOYD, Assistant Chief
Anchorage Fire Department (AFD)
Alaska Fire Chiefs Association (AFCA)
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 27.
JEFF TUCKER, President
Alaska Fire Chiefs Association (AFCA)
Kenai, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 27.
ALISON TALLEY
Learning Disabilities Association of Alaska (LDAA)
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 27.
KRISTI APANGALOOK
Alaska Community Against Toxins (ACAT)
Gambell, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 27.
ABEL BULT-ITO, Professor; PhD
University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF)
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 27.
THOMAS OSIMITZ
American Chemistry Council (ACC)
Charlottesville, California
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified during discussion of HB 27.
EMMA PATE
Norton Sound Health Corporation (NSHC)
Nome, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 27.
PATTI SAUNDERS
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 27.
JOHN KENNISH
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support during discussion of
HB 27.
JASMINE JEMEWOUK, Board Member
Alaska Community Action on Toxics
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support during discussion of
HB 27.
JENNIFER GIBBONS, Vice President
State Governmental Affairs
The Toy Association
Sacramento, California
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified during discussion of HB 27.
OLIVIA OLSON
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 27.
McJUN NOBLEZA
Barrow, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified during the discussion of HB 27.
ZEB SHELDON
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 27.
PAMELA MILLER, Executive Director
Alaska Community Action on Toxics (ACAT)
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 27.
SU CHON
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 27.
JACICA KIM
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of HB 27.
JOHN "CHRIS" MAISCH, Director & State Forester
Division of Forestry
Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Answered questions during discussion of HB
355.
TIM BISSON, Audit Section Manager
Central Office
Division of Oil and Gas
Department of Natural Resources
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Presented a PowerPoint titled "Protective
Orders" and answered questions during discussion of HB 330.
KARA MORIARTY, President/CEO
Alaska Oil & Gas Association (AOGA)
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified during discussion of HB 330.
ACTION NARRATIVE
1:03:18 PM
CO-CHAIR GERAN TARR called the House Resources Standing
Committee meeting to order at 1:03 p.m. Representatives Tarr,
Josephson, Lincoln, Talerico, Rauscher, Birch, Parish, and
Drummond were present at the call to order.
HB 27-HIGH-RISK CHEMICALS FOR CHILD EXPOSURE
1:04:45 PM
CO-CHAIR TARR announced that the first order of business would
be HOUSE BILL NO. 27, "An Act relating to chemicals that are of
high concern for children and to the manufacture and sale of
products containing certain flame retardant chemicals; relating
to an interstate chemicals clearinghouse; adding an unlawful act
to the Alaska Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection
Act; and providing for an effective date."
1:05:00 PM
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON moved to adopt the proposed committee
substitute (CS) for HB 27, labeled 30-LS0264\D, Bannister,
3/5/18, as the working draft.
CO-CHAIR TARR objected for discussion.
[Co-Chair Tarr passed the gavel to Co-Chair Josephson.]
1:05:36 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR, as sponsor of HB 27, stated that the title,
"Toxic Free Children's Act," would address some of the chemicals
used in our environment. She presented a PowerPoint, titled
"Toxic Free Children's Act." She referred to slide 1,
"Regulation of Chemicals in Our Environment," which read as
follows [original punctuation provided]:
square4 Federal Laws
square4 Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act
(passed in 1910, pesticides)
square4 Federal food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (passed in
1938, drugs, cosmetics, foods, food additives)
square4 Toxics Substances Control Act (passed in 1976)
square4 Updated in 2016 with Frank Lautenberg Chemical
Safety for the 21st Century Act
REPRESENTATIVE TARR spoke to the weaknesses of the laws, noting
the first two laws listed passed in 1910 and 1938, respectively.
She acknowledged these federal laws were quite old. She noted
the final law, the Toxic Substances Control Act, which passed in
1976, was just updated in 2016.
1:07:03 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR shared some history of environmental
pollution, such as when the Cuyahoga River [in Ohio] caught on
fire on June 22, 1969. She quoted an old saying, "The solution
to pollution is dilution." Frequently, chemicals were just
dumped into water and air. Some people may recall an image of a
sewage pipe that directly emptied into a waterbody. That
disposal method was commonly used to handle human waste.
REPRESENTATIVE TARR commented that between 1938 and 1976, many
chemicals were developed to be used for warfare. These
chemicals, organophosphates and organochlorines, were repurposed
in insecticides, food production and personal care products.
She characterized this as a "chemical revolution," with little
understanding, oversight or testing. She pointed out the Toxic
Substances Control Act happened about the same time that the
polluted Cuyahoga River caught fire. The beginnings of the Ohio
Environmental Protection Act predated the national EPA
[Environmental Protection Act] of 1970.
1:09:13 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR directed attention to slide 2, "Regulation
of Chemicals in Our Environment," which read as follows
[original punctuation provided]:
square4 Federal Laws
square4 Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008
square4 Use children as the benchmark for safety
square4 Included the Lead Free Toys Act
square4 Status "CPSC has and is continuing to implement
regulations based on CPSIA."
1:11:22 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR turned to slide 3, "Frank R. Lautenberg
Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act," which consisted of
two tables. The first table, "TSCA as reformed by the Frank R.
Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act," and the
second table, "TSCA pre-reform, which read as follows:
TSCA as reformed by TSCA as reformed by the Frank R.
Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act
Mandatory duty on EPA to evaluate existing chemicals
with clear and enforceable deadlines
Chemicals assessed against a risk-based safety
standard
Unreasonable risks identified in the risk evaluation
must be eliminated
Expanded authority to more quickly require development
of chemical information when needed
TSCA pre-reform
No duty to review, no deadlines for action
Risk-benefit balancing standard
Significant risks might not be addressed due to
cost/benefit balancing and no mandate to act
Testing on existing chemicals required lengthy
rulemaking
REPRESENTATIVE TARR stated that this slide provided a comparison
of the TSCA and TSCA pre-reform laws. She contrasted the first
item on the two tables, "No duty to review, no deadlines for
actions" with the reformed TSCA requirement, "Mandatory duty on
EPA to evaluate existing chemicals with clear and enforceable
deadlines." The latter rationale explained why chemicals have
been in use in our environment for decades without being fully
assessed for the long-term health and environmental impacts.
1:11:46 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR gave an example, noting TSCA pre-reform was
so weak that asbestos, a known carcinogen, could not be banned
under the law.
REPRESENTATIVE TARR reviewed the second item, "Chemicals
assessed against a risk-based safety standard" and contrasted it
with a "Risk-benefit balancing standard," which illustrated a
dramatic change in evaluating chemicals in the regulatory
context. The risk-benefit award reviewed risk by stating that
one in 100,000 people might be impacted and concluded that risk
was an acceptable one. She said, "You might be that one person
in 100,000 that gets cancer." However, she did not find that to
be a fully-satisfactory regulatory risk, since she did not want
to be the one person to get cancer. She compared that to the
"chemicals assessed against a risk-based safety standard," which
was definitely an improvement. Many people wanted to move to a
"precautionary principle." Under this principle, people would
not introduce chemicals into the environment until certainty was
obtained that the chemicals would not pose adverse human health
effects or long-term environmental impacts. She directed
attention to the last bullet, which compared "Expanded authority
to more quickly require development of chemical information when
needed," to the TSCA pre-reform standard that "Testing on
existing chemicals required lengthy rulemaking." She emphasized
this demonstrated the reason this law was so weak in terms of
responding to new safety information.
1:13:28 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR directed attention to slide 4, "The Point,"
stating much needs to be done and much needs to be learned.
People often talk in absolutes. She related that there is a
difference between causation and correlation. In a policy
context, this often meant that people seek an exact causation
relationship; for example, exposure to chemical "A" leads to a
specific health problem associated with it. She pointed out one
issue, such that scientists do not test on humans. She
emphasized that will not change. She offered her belief that
scientists do not knowingly expose humans to potentially harmful
chemicals for the purposes of science. Instead, scientists
performed lab studies on lower organisms. This meant that it
could take longer to learn about the human health impacts.
Certainly, testing would not be done on developing fetuses, she
opined. Instead, scientists performed studies on breast blood
samples to learn the effects of chemicals on developing fetuses
and milk samples were taken to test breast milk to assess any
impacts on infants.
1:14:45 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR reminded members that scientists just
completed the Human Genome Project in 2003, which provided
significant breakthroughs in understanding human health. She
characterized the project as a reference library for human
health conditions. She emphasized the importance to have
references as society works to understand the relationship
between exposure to chemicals and genetics. For example,
doctors can now say that some breast cancers are linked to
environmental exposures and some link to genetic markers, she
said. The Human Genome Project has provided the resource to do
so; however, keep in mind how recent this discovery was made.
1:15:25 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR said scientists and researchers have
knowledge today that can be acted on, but research provides
ongoing new information. She reported that even very low level
exposure can result in adverse health effects. The results can
be varied since each person has different genetics and
lifestyles, including food and diet. She pointed out in
isolated instances causation relationships can be determined,
such as that farm workers in California's Central Valley were
exposed to high levels of pesticide and suffered adverse health
effects. She highlighted that people often rely on the federal
government to regulate chemicals and believe these products are
safe to use, but they should not. She emphasized that so much
more needs to be done.
1:16:54 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR directed attention to slide 5, "Health
Concerns Due to Exposure to Chemicals," which read as follows
[original punctuation provided]:
square4 Cancer
square4 Reproductive Health disorders
square4 Developmental delays or cognitive impairment
square4 Birth defects
square4 Endocrine disruption
square4 Respiratory disorders
square4 Neurodevelopmental disorders
REPRESENTATIVE TARR said the list on slide 5 identified some
adverse health impacts linked to exposure to chemicals. She
offered to discuss some of the health problems associated with
exposure to chemicals, for example, the leading cause of cancer
for firefighters was exposure to [polybrominated diphenyl ethers
or] PBDE flame retardants. She reviewed the list, noting that
it was important to be concerned about chemicals humans are
exposed to in their environment.
1:17:29 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR directed attention to slide 6, "3 Ways for
Exposure," noting humans become exposed to chemicals in three
main ways
square4 Absorption
square4 Personal Care Products (directly to skin)
square4 Inhalation
square4 Flame Retardants (in dust and burning)
square4 Eating
square4 Pesticides on fruits and vegetables, in milk
and meat
1:18:11 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR directed attention to slide 7, "Flame
Retardants (PBDEs)," which read as follows [original punctuation
provided]:
square4 Used in children's products, furniture,
electronics, plastics, building materials, motor
vehicles, airplanes, and textiles
square4 Exposure is from ingestion of food and inhalation
square4 Chemical composition: Polybrominated diphenyl
ether
square4 Structurally similar to PCBs
square4 Family of chemicals can make over 200 related
chemicals
REPRESENTATIVE TARR said that PBDEs were widely used in personal
care products and she would like to discuss the policy
alternatives can be taken to address these concerns. She
reported that PBDEs are structurally similar to PCBs
[polychlorinated biphenyl], noting the committee has previously
discussed abandoned WWII sites in Alaska and PCB exposure. She
emphasized that these chemicals should be thought about
structurally as a family of chemicals in terms of their impact
on human health.
1:19:30 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR directed attention to slide 8, "Flame
Retardants (PBDEs),"
square4 Chemicals bioaccumulate in blood, breast milk,
and fat tissues
square4 Health impacts include thyroid hormone
disruption, permanent learning and memory
impairment, behavioral changes, and more
square4 Leading cause of cancer in Firefighters
REPRESENTATIVE TARR defined bioaccumulate to mean that with each
exposure chemicals add up or accumulate over time; for example,
animals at the top of the food chain have the most highly
concentrated levels of chemicals. This has implications for
those who rely on subsistence food sources, she said.
1:20:19 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR directed attention to slide 9, "Why Flame
Retardants?" This slide depicted an historical timeline of
flame retardants used in household products from 1975 to 2016.
She directed attention to 1975, when California passed a
furniture flammability standard that led furniture manufacturers
to use large amounts of flame retardant chemicals in foam
cushioning sold throughout the United States. She highlighted
that the timeline depicted recent happenings in terms of
scientific understanding.
1:20:53 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR explained the rationale for using flame
retardants was to address increasing numbers of home fires due
to cigarette use that unextinguished cigarettes ignited sofas or
beds. However, since cigarette manufacturers have changed how
cigarettes are made and while cigarettes are not completely
extinguishable, they do not tend to cause the types of fires
that occurred in 1975. She pointed out that statistics have
shown the number of residential fires caused by cigarettes has
gone down significantly. It has raised the question of whether
these chemicals are really necessary, she said.
REPRESENTATIVE TARR reported that this slide was developed by
the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a non-profit organization
that does research in this area. In 2016, the EWG detected
carcinogenic PBDE replacements in Californian children at levels
15 times higher than those of their moms. As consumers become
aware of the increased risks, the demand to remove chemicals
from products has increased, she said.
1:22:30 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR directed attention to slide 10, "How are We
Exposed?" The slide depicted a mom and baby in a living room
surrounded by products containing flame retardants, including
upholstered furniture, plastic encasing for electronics and
carpet padding with recycled foam. She emphasized that
contaminated dust was problematic in Alaska since homes are
closed up for extended periods of time during long, cold
winters. This could result in less air flow and a higher level
of dust accumulation in homes. This tends to pose problems for
babies and toddlers since they touch and put everything into
their mouths, she said.
1:23:36 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR directed attention to slide 11, "Children's
Exposure is a Major Concern," and related children are exposed
to flame retardants in foam products in mattresses, nap mats,
changing pads, foam insulation, and nursing pillows.
1:23:50 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR directed attention to slides 12 and 13,
"Endocrine System & Endocrine Disruption." She said it was
upsetting to her to learn that firefighters who spend their
careers in lifesaving work were subject to shorter lifespans due
to chemical exposure. She directed attention to the slide
showing a diagram of the endocrine system, which represents the
hormone system. She characterized the endocrine system as an
on-demand system since hormones are produced by the system when
the body needs them.
1:24:54 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR described the pituitary gland as the control
center, informing other glands to make hormones needed by the
body. She said during endocrine disruptions those messages are
not delivered. She explained the process, such that hormones
provide a key that fits into a cell receptor, but only a
specific hormone should fit into a specific receptor. However,
with endocrine disrupting chemicals, the chemicals mimic the
ones produced by the body and interfere by taking the place of
the natural hormone. This could lead to underproduction or
overproduction of hormones, or it could lead to the hormone
being released at the wrong time, she said.
1:25:57 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR directed attention to the picture on the
righthand side of the slide that depicted both a normal
endocrine system response and a chemically-induced mimic of one.
She said chemicals that fit in where they do not belong in our
bodies cause bad health outcomes. She related examples of
health issues, including thyroid-related disorders that
interfere with metabolism.
1:27:27 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR directed attention to slide 14, "Policy
Solutions." She explained that HB 27 would restrict the use of
known chemicals of concern, such as PBDEs that have been
substantiated to cause harm. The bill would also restrict
possible substitutes since these chemicals might pose
substantial risks, as well. She stated that the family of
chemicals can make over 200 related chemicals which could cause
the same problems. The bill also has provisions related to
conducting research in Alaska. Some work has already been
conducted by testing breast milk of Alaska Native women. In
addition, Canada has conducted some research in the far north
regions of the Northwest Territories. The Canadian study showed
incidences of chemicals not found in the region, ones used in
other countries that were transported to Canada via water or
wind. She said this was similar to the way acid rain was
transmitted by wind. This bill would also call on Alaska to
collaborate with other states to gain knowledge from their work
since it is costly to conduct health research.
1:29:46 PM
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH asked if it was safe to say she was not
satisfied with the protections provided by the federal
government. He expressed concern that the program proposed in
HB 27 would be expensive to implement. He said reviewed
articles in Consumer Reports and the reporting acknowledged
issues with fire retardants but recognized that with their use
fewer children suffered burns. He asked the reason to implement
this now and why Alaska should be the state to become involved
in restricting flame retardants in children's clothing.
REPRESENTATIVE TARR, in response, said that Alaska was not
alone. She reported that 30 other states were also considering
similar legislation. She said people have been dissatisfied
with the length of time it has taken to get reforms through the
federal government. Some regulations date back to over a
hundred years ago and need updating since so much has changed in
terms of the information on developmental health and with the
completion of the Human Genome Project. Significant gains in
human health knowledge has occurred in the last 10-15 years.
She expressed concern that some chemicals were grandfathered in
without testing for adverse human health or environmental
issues.
REPRESENTATIVE TARR viewed the bill as developing a partnership
so work performed at the state level could be shared with the
federal government. She said by working collaboratively Alaska
could get the important health information that it needs.
1:32:34 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR offered her belief that this bill could
offer an opportunity for new product development using the kind
of research and ingenuity that it took to develop new products
initially. She argued that safer alternatives exist for the
current flame retardants and it was just a matter of
transitioning into the safer ones. Although it has not been
possible to make significant gains in the regulatory framework
on BPA or bisphenol A, known to have adverse human health
effects, it would currently be difficult to find any plastic
bottles containing BPA. She attributed this to public pressure
to remove the harmful chemical from products the used daily.
She remarked that BPAs were contained in baby bottles and other
products small children used. As the public gained awareness
through blogs and other information, it has affected consumer
behavior and companies responded. Local, state, and federal
governments, researchers and consumers must all work together to
figure out how to move forward, she said.
1:33:56 PM
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH said he has four grade school aged
grandchildren who often sleep over. He remarked that he was
very comfortable to have them in their fire retardant pajamas.
He looked forward to learning more but it seemed as though the
issue was flame retardant versus adverse consequences and it
seemed reasonable to have these products in our lives.
REPRESENTATIVE TARR pointed out that flame retardants were taken
out of pajamas because they were found to be dangerous for
children; however, these PBDEs are used in other products in
homes. She said a wool rug was naturally fire resistant, but
consumers could choose to use synthetic fibers that require
flame retardants. In addition, consumers could be more careful
with cigarettes and candles to reduce fire danger.
1:35:20 PM
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON asked whether the legal analysis was similar
to the GMO [genetically modified] labeling issue. He referred
to Section 2, to the requirement that manufacturers must label
items contain chemical flame retardants. He asked for further
clarification on whether that was possible.
REPRESENTATIVE TARR responded that the state can regulate
labeling. She related that some interstate commerce clauses
indicate what chemicals can be used, but the state can regulate
what products can be sold and whether those products need to be
labeled.
1:36:04 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH asked if the other 30 states were
considering action. He asked whether any states currently
restrict flame retardant chemicals.
REPRESENTATIVE TARR answered yes; that Rhode Island was among
several. She offered to provide a list of states to the
committee that have passed similar laws. She said that Rhode
Island, like Alaska, was trying to address a class of chemicals
rather than list banned chemicals, because substitutions are a
big issue.
1:37:10 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH asked whether the committee would hear
testimony that provides more causative relationships.
REPRESENTATIVE TARR responded yes. She pointed to the handout
in members' packets from Safer States that discusses toxic flame
retardants. She referred to a map in the handout. She reported
that 22 current policies exist in 14 states and 13 states have
adopted 33 policies.
1:38:16 PM
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON related his understanding of considerable
interest and support from Western Alaska. He reported hearing a
"lunch and learn" yesterday about the ocean pathways of
distribution and the impacts of chemicals left behind by the US
Department of Defense (DOD). He noted that the communities of
Savoonga and Elim and areas of the Seward Peninsula have
expressed concern about chemicals.
REPRESENTATIVE TARR remarked that the phenomenon of chemicals
traveling to the Arctic was often referred to as the
"grasshopper" effect due to the amplification of effects of
colder temperatures. She highlighted that research has been
done on St. Lawrence Island and other places with abandoned US
DOD sites that have high rates of cancer in a small population,
infertility and miscarriages or abnormalities in subsistence
foods. Hunters have noticed changes in subsistence animal
organs. She characterized these observations and the oral
tradition as important and powerful.
1:41:04 PM
REPRESENTATIVE DRUMMOND shared an anecdote of firefighter deaths
in Anchorage. These firefighters died from exposure to
chemicals in their work. She was glad to hear that HB 27 was
targeting chemicals that impact firefighters.
REPRESENTATIVE DRUMMOND related her understanding that
bioaccumulation occurred in blood, breast milk, and fat tissues.
She asked whether these substances can be reduced or if there
was any way to clear them out of the system.
1:42:33 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TARR, in response, said that metabolism allows
chemicals to be released. She pointed out that whaling occurs
in some rural communities and bioaccumulation of chemicals
occurred in whale fat being eaten since whales are at top of the
food chain. Each point along the food chain concentrates the
bioaccumulation, she said.
1:43:33 PM
REPRESENTATIVE DRUMMOND asked how someone metabolizes their own
fat stores.
REPRESENTATIVE TARR explained that when someone was in the
process of weight loss, the body looks to the fat tissue as an
energy source.
1:44:24 PM
The committee took a brief at-ease.
[Co-Chair Josephson returned the gavel to Co-Chair Tarr]
1:44:47 PM
CO-CHAIR TARR opened invited testimony on HB 27.
1:45:01 PM
VEENA SINGLA, Scientist; PhD, University of California San
Francisco (UC San Francisco) stated that she is a scientist in
the program on reproductive health in the environment. She said
her program's mission is to create a healthier environment for
human reproduction and development through advancing scientific
inquiries, clinical care, and health policies that prevent
exposures to harmful chemicals in our environment. She reported
that flame retardants in furniture and children's products has
been found to be ineffective and unnecessary for slowing and
preventing fires. Research at the Consumer Products Safety
Commission and the California Bureau of Home Furnishings found
no difference in fire behavior of furniture with or without
flame retardants. She said that flame retardants are not needed
in children's products.
1:45:52 PM
DR. SINGLA stated in 2016, she published a study that 10
organohalogen flame retardants were widespread in the indoor
dusts of our homes, schools, and other buildings. These
chemicals pose health hazards, including cancer, reproductive
and developmental toxicity.
DR. SINGLA explained that flame retardant chemicals were added
to children's products and furniture, but these chemicals
migrate and contaminate indoor air and dust. This contaminated
air and dust are ingested when people breathe. She pointed out
that children are more vulnerable and at risk for flame
retardant exposure. They breathe more for their body size than
adults and have closer contact with baby products and
contaminated dust when they crawl on floors. They have three to
15 times greater times of flame retardants in their bodies
compared to their moms, she said.
1:47:04 PM
DR. SINGLA reported that infants with more baby products in the
home tend to have higher flame retardant levels, up to 100 times
greater than their moms. This posed a serious concern because
children's brains and bodies are uniquely vulnerable to the
effects of toxic chemicals. She pointed out that some
chemicals, such as lead are particularly poisonous to children
while their brains are developing. She reported that her
programs published a comprehensive review of PBDEs last year
which found that flame retardant exposure before birth was
associated with lower IQs in children. Furthermore, early life
exposures to cancer-causing chemicals could increase cancer risk
for a person's entire life span. She related that data from
numerous studies has shown use of fewer flame retardant products
in rooms resulted in lower levels of chemicals in air, dust, and
people.
DR. SINGLA stated that limiting flame retardants in products is
an effective and evidence-based approach to reduce harmful
chemicals in our children's bodies. She thanked members for the
opportunity to testify.
1:48:14 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH asked if she was aware of any studies or
experiments - not conducted on humans - that have found causal
relationship exists.
DR. SINGLA, in response, answered that flame retardants have had
toxicological testing establishing toxicities, for example, the
neurodevelopmental toxicity of PBDE flame retardants or the
cancer-causing properties of other flame retardants. She
reported that the National Toxicology Program has done extensive
testing on a number of flame retardants to determine health
hazards. In response to Co-Chair Tarr, she offered to provide
copies of any studies.
1:49:48 PM
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH pointed out the committee spent nearly an
hour rolling out this proposal. He asked when she would
conclude public testimony [since it was lengthy testimony and
others needed to an opportunity to testify].
REPRESENTATIVE TARR clarified that the testifiers were invited
participants.
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH asked if there were any divergent opinions
on the bill.
1:50:49 PM
ALEX BOYD, Assistant Chief, Anchorage Fire Department (AFD),
Alaska Fire Chiefs Association (AFCA), stated that he signed on,
as did many of his colleagues, to assist his community. They
have found that firefighters were two to six times more likely
to be diagnosed with cancer. According to some studies,
firefighters' lifespans have been 25-30 years shorter than the
average person.
MR. BOYD offered his belief that exposure to organohalogens was
not solely responsible but contributed to the higher incidence
of exposure to flame retardants when fighting fires. He spoke
on behalf of the Fire Chiefs Association in support of HB 27.
1:52:05 PM
JEFF TUCKER, President, Alaska Fire Chiefs Association (AFCA),
spoke in support of HB 27. He reiterated that flame retardants
were used in the 1970s. Fire protection from the flame
retardants did not occur and studies have shown these chemicals
contain highly toxic carcinogens. Today's firefighters suffer
ever more increasing exposure from toxic atmospheres in today's
homes. Firefighters dying from occupational-related cancers now
nationally count for over half of the line-of-duty deaths each
year. The Alaska legislature has recognized the risk
firefighters face by enacting legislation that provides
presumptive coverage for disabilities from diseases, including
certain cancers directly linked to flame retardants. The
firefighters have been taking proactive steps to reduce exposure
to carcinogens by instituting new procedures and adopting the
technologies to protect firefighters. However, that was not
enough, he said.
1:54:02 PM
MR. TUCKER pointed out that Representative Tarr mentioned
earlier fire-safe cigarettes. The fire-safe cigarette
initiatives were state initiatives that began in the early
2000s. In 2007, Alaska adopted Senate Bill 84 and in 2012 all
50 states enacted legislation for fire-safe cigarettes. He
remarked that this bill was also a state proposal rather than a
federal initiative. On behalf of the Alaska Fire Chiefs
Association and firefighters across the state, he urged members
to pass HB 27 to protect firefighters who serve communities from
cancer-causing chemicals. He thanked members.
1:55:02 PM
REPRESENTATIVE DRUMMOND related his understanding that consumers
can now avoid chemically-laden products for their homes. She
asked how consumers can rid themselves of existing chemicals in
our homes. She characterized Alaska as the end of the line for
products with furnishings clearly ensconced in people's homes.
MR. TUCKER said he was unsure. He explained that the fire
service has taken proactive steps and now treats structure fires
differently. He related that firefighters treat fires as a
hazardous material [HAZMAT] response. The departments have
started initiating procedures to decontaminate firefighters on
scene and provide protective gear such as hoods that provide
toxin protections. He reiterated that he was not sure how to
rid homes of these chemicals other than through attrition. He
emphasized that not putting chemically-laden products in our
homes would be a positive step Alaskans could make.
REPRESENTATIVE DRUMMOND said she has observed firefighters
cleaning personal equipment after a fire call. She asked
whether the cleaning system has a limited effect or if their
processes remove a significant portion of the chemicals.
MR. TUCKER said that the commercial washing machines did a good
job of removing these chemicals. Some fire departments have
started to purchase two sets of gear for firefighters to allow
the used set of gear to be decontaminated. He related that on-
site exposure included skin contact as well as respiratory
exposure. Fire departments have been working to implement
proactive measures.
1:58:56 PM
ALISON TALLEY, Learning Disabilities Association of Alaska
(LDAA), paraphrasing from a prepared statement, thanked members
for the opportunity to speak in support of HB 27. She stated
that she is the mother of three adopted children, all of them
born in Alaska. Two of her children have learning disabilities.
She also volunteers with the Learning Disabilities Association
of Alaska. She offered to provide members with her written
testimony in support of HB 27. She encouraged members to read
the source materials cited in her letter.
MS. TALLEY provided statistics, such as one reported in an
article published in Pediatrics [Official Journal of the
American Academy of Pediatrics] and cited by the CDC [Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention] noting that one in six
children in the United States has a reported learning or
developmental disability, such as autism or an attention deficit
hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This represents a 17 percent
increase in 10 years, she said. She reported that between 1997-
2008, the prevalence of ADHD rose by 33 percent and autism rose
by 290 percent.
2:00:44 PM
MS. TALLEY further reported that the National Academy of Science
(NAS) indicated environmental factors, including toxic chemicals
like flame retardants contribute to or cause 28 percent of these
disabilities. Over one-quarter of disabilities like learning
problems, ADHD, and autism were caused in part by exposure to
toxic chemicals that are found in everyday household products,
she said. Science clearly shows that even low levels of toxic
chemicals such as flame retardants can affect and change babies'
brains. Those disabilities last a lifetime, she said.
MS. TALLEY stated that homework time at her house was not
frustrating but heartbreaking. Her children felt they were not
as smart, worthwhile or as good as other children. It took all
their courage every day just to go to school and it took all of
hers to send them, she said. She wondered whether exposure to
toxic chemicals might have contributed even a small amount to
the heartbreak present at her dining room table. She remarked
that she did not wish this to happen to any family.
MS. TALLEY urged members to act and prevent damage by toxic
chemicals to developing brains. She urged members to adopt the
Toxic Free Children Act. Please protect Alaska's children from
flame retardants that put them at higher risk for developmental
and learning disabilities. She thanked members for the
opportunity to testify.
2:03:00 PM
CO-CHAIR TARR opened public testimony on HB 27.
2:03:59 PM
KRISTI APANGALOOK, Alaska Community Against Toxins (ACAT),
stated that she was calling from St. Lawrence Island. She was
calling to testify on behalf of ACAT. She said she was the
mother of a six-year-old boy and was expecting another child.
She offered her belief that flame retardants should be banned.
She offered that she lives in an isolated village on St.
Lawrence Island. She said that residents were often cooped up
inside during winter storms suffering exposure to flame
retardants contained in furniture. She spoke in support of HB
27. She said it was scary to be expecting a child and buying
furniture that likely contained flame retardants. She thanked
the committee for its time.
2:05:30 PM
ABEL BULT-ITO, Professor; PhD, University of Alaska Fairbanks
(UAF), stated that he is a professor of neurobiology and
anatomy. He offered to speak on behalf of himself, as an expert
in behavioral neuroscience in strong support of HB 27.
DR. BULT-ITO, responding to earlier questions, spoke about many
studies that showed causal effects. He said that very low
dosages of zebra fish treated with flame retardants will
dramatically affect their behavior in larvae and in adults. He
reported that flame retardants at comparable levels to humans
have shown to decrease attention span in rats and affected
neural development in mice. He reiterated that a host of
studies showed flame retardants are harmful to developing
animals and - he assumed - for people as well. He reiterated
his strong support for HB 27. He hoped the legislature would
pass HB 27.
2:07:12 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH asked if he could forward the studies on
rats and mice. He also asked whether he could provide a more
comprehensive list of chemicals with clearly indicated adverse
consequences that were not on a federally-restricted list.
DR. ABUL-ITO agreed to provide the studies and additional
information to the committee. He suggested one source he has
used was the National Institute of Health PubMed website
[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/]. He stated that a search
for flame retardants and brain developments would provide
numerous articles and papers that show the effects of these
toxic chemicals.
2:08:35 PM
THOMAS OSIMITZ, American Chemistry Council (ACC), offered to
comment on two things. He suggested that thinking about hazards
was important; however, the most important thing to consider was
the actual chemical exposure to children and people. He said it
was important to bring the concept of risk into the decision-
making process of which chemicals should be regulated. For
example, some chemicals that have undergone extensive reviews
include flame retardants known as TCPP, [commonly used in
mattresses and upholstered furniture] have been found to have no
adverse effects. Similarly, TCPP does not fall on a list of
chemicals of high concern, that it was not neurotoxic, not
classified as a carcinogen, or endocrine disrupter, he said. He
emphasized that members should think very clearly about the
exposure and not just the hazard associated with the chemical,
to use a risk assessment to prioritize what should be regulated.
He argued against calling out specific chemicals unless they
have gone through a rigorous decision-tree. He said he was
speaking as a toxicologist who has looked at these chemicals for
quite a few years.
2:10:41 PM
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH asked about halon as a fire suppressor. He
asked for further clarification on the operative chemical in
fire extinguishers.
MR. OSIMITZ responded it was not his area of expertise, but he
offered his belief that some bromine molecules and other
chemicals are likely used to suppress fires.
2:11:38 PM
REPRESENTATIVE DRUMMOND shared about the concern for calling out
specific chemicals or classes of chemicals. She asked for a
source.
MR. OSIMITZ referred to the specific chemicals in HB 27, noting
that they had different properties and toxicology. He specified
that TCPP was not a PBT [polybutylene terephthalate] or a
carcinogen and it is not considered to have any of those bad
hazard properties that have been listed or identified chemicals
as high concerns for children. He said that alone illustrated
the point of why it was important to look at each chemical
individually as opposed to making broad sweeping statements. He
referred to earlier testimony, with respect to HBCDs [hexabromo-
cyclododecane], while it was true for diphenyl ethers, it was
not remotely related in biological effects to some of the other
flame retardants. He objected to grouping the whole flame
retardant category since it did not fit the science or make good
public policy. He said it was important not just to start with
the criteria, which is reasonable, but to be aware that exposure
is what matters. The exposure level would be the tool
legislators could use to prioritize what chemicals are most
important to regulate because it would bring the biggest public
health improvement, he said. He suggested that as the bill was
currently written a lot of energy would be misspent listing
chemicals that would have no effect on exposure to people and
would not result in any public health benefit.
2:14:11 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH asked about the process a chemical goes
through, including animal trials, to determine safety for a
consumer product.
MR. OSIMITZ deferred to others to speak to the details regarding
current regulations; however, he offered his belief that the
chemicals such as TCPP have gone through extensive testing. He
said that many of the newer chemicals have extensive data. He
offered to provide the committee with one of the EPA alternate
assessments on various flame retardant chemicals. He thought
that was a pretty good compendium of what the EPA has available
or has predicted. He remarked that extensive work has been done
in the past 20 years. He said the due diligence and care that
goes into developing new molecules has changed in the past 10
years.
2:15:54 PM
EMMA PATE, Norton Sound Health Corporation (NSHC), stated she
was born and raised in the Bering Strait Region, an area that
NSHC serves. The NSHC strongly advocates for HB 27 to protect
the health and safety of Alaskan children. She said that
reviewing the facts provided by the Alaska Community Action on
Toxics, the organohalogen flame retardants have immediate and
long term effects on Alaskan children who are most vulnerable to
toxins. She urged Alaskans who have the capacity to protect
children need to do so. Firefighters need protection from these
chemicals.
MS. PATE stated the NSHC also submitted a letter of support from
Angie Gorn, NSHC's president and chief executive officer (CEO).
She thanked members for their time.
2:17:49 PM
PATTI SAUNDERS, on behalf of herself, read from a prepared
statement, as follows:
I am very fortunate to have many children in my life.
I'm a grandmother, an honorary aunt, and a special
friend to my amazing four-year-old neighbor. I love
them all beyond measure.
2:18:10 PM
MS. SAUNDERS remarked that she did not want to be a researcher
with PhD level investigative skills to make sure the toys and
other gifts she purchases will not cause harm because of toxic
ingredients that cause neurological defects and adult
reproductive difficulties. She said she was deeply offended by
the suggestion of the American Chemistry Council representative
that the state should defer regulation of unnecessary and
ineffective chemicals until proven harmful or that Alaska should
not protect its children from those chemicals. She urged
members to please support HB 27 to start fixing the problems of
organohalogen flame retardants.
2:20:39 PM
JOHN KENNISH, on behalf of himself, stated he is a retired
professor and an experienced chemist. He stated that he worked
as a chemist for 50 years. He worked on flame retardants years
ago as well as on studies of metabolism distribution of these
chemicals in rats. He explained that the net result of these
compounds is they break down rapidly to produce free radicals
and one of the free radicals is halogen - either chlorine or
bromine - and react to oxygen to terminate the actual flame by
removing oxygen from the flame. The problem with these
compounds, these free radicals, is that will react to cell
tissue in the body, he said. These compounds can be absorbed
through the skin and that means there are some levels of those
compounds in children sleeping in flame retardant clothing, so
everyone was being exposed.
2:21:52 PM
MR. KENNISH remarked that chemicals also become absorbed when
people sit on furniture. It was found that chemicals were
absorbed fastest around the stomach area, which was why it was
problematic for children wearing flame retardant treated
pajamas. He said non-toxic materials were available for
clothing. He suggested eliminating chemicals that are absorbed
metabolically converted and reacting in cells with other non-
toxic materials.
2:22:37 PM
MR. KENNISH recalled several years ago people in Anchorage
analyzed these chemicals and lawyers were likely affected since
they sat in treated chairs while at work. He concluded it was
not just children who were exposed but everyone was being
exposed at some level to highly-reactive compounds. He said
once the flame retardant chemicals were in the body, the free
radicals react in the tissue. He pointed out firefighters
become exposed to really toxic reactive chemicals once free
radicals are exposed to flames.
2:23:32 PM
REPRESENTATIVE DRUMMOND asked if he participated in the
investigations he remarked on today.
MR. KENNISH said that he worked on these chemicals at the Oregon
Health Sciences Center and Department of Physiology &
Pharmacology from 1977 through 1980 and some summers working on
studying metabolism and distribution of chemicals to tissues.
REPRESENTATIVE DRUMMOND asked for the most recent citations for
the most recent work.
MR. KENNISH said he provided information to the sponsor. He
offered to provide more specific information to the committee.
2:25:03 PM
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH asked whether someone from the Toy
Association would testify.
CO-CHAIR TARR answered yes.
2:25:21 PM
JASMINE JEMEWOUK, Board Member, Alaska Community Action on
Toxics, stated she was also student at the University of Alaska
from Elim, Alaska. She offered her belief that HB 27 would
protect Alaskan children from exposure to flame retardants that
were known to cause adverse health effects. She stated that
children in Alaska were disproportionately exposed to flame
retardants due to being confined indoors during long winters.
She offered her belief that keeping flame retardants out of
products was crucial for Alaska's public health. She thanked
the committee for the opportunity to testify.
2:26:41 PM
JENNIFER GIBBONS, Vice President, State Governmental Affairs,
The Toy Association, explained that she represents over 950
members of toy retailers and manufacturers in North America.
She offered to highlight a few concerns with HB 27.
MS. GIBBONS said that toy manufacturers typically do not add
flame retardants to toys; however, some of the chemical
substances may be found in the structural make up of toys in the
internal electronic components. She stated that flame
retardants could be found in electronic circuit boards and
electronic assemblies in toys. These components were
inaccessible to children and the flame retardants used in these
components were critical to product safety. While there may be
alternatives for other uses of flame retardants, in this
application there was not any consistent and reliable
alternative, she said.
2:27:34 PM
MS. GIBBONS stated that banning flame retardants in electronic
components may result in electrical risks not currently present.
Other states have recognized this and have exempted electronic
or inaccessible components in flame retardant restrictions. She
thanked the committee for its consideration.
2:28:01 PM
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH asked how widespread this was within toys.
MS. GIBBONS answered that the problematic area would be banning
electronic components since companies must meet federal and
international flammability standards. She offered her belief it
was critical to the safety of toys that the flame retardants be
present.
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH asked if all other states with similar
legislation have this exemption.
MS. GIBBONS spoke to the specifics of bills she was familiar
with that related to children's products since some states have
enacted flame retardant legislation specific to furniture. She
was not familiar with those bills. She stated that with respect
to flame retardant restrictions in children or juvenile products
there are exemptions for consumer electronics or inaccessible
components.
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH asked for confirmation that to best of her
knowledge there were not any restrictions to inaccessible
components in children's products.
MS. GIBBONS answered no.
2:30:01 PM
OLIVIA OLSON stated she was 16 years old. She expressed her
concerns about flame retardant products. She has two younger
brothers who constantly touch and play with toys. She was
concerned about the health effects [flame retardants] would have
on her family. She offered her strong support for HB 27 because
she should not have to worry about her family getting cancer,
learning disabilities, or immune disorders from exposure to
these chemicals. She thanked the sponsor for introducing the
bill and taking a leadership role for a healthier Alaska.
2:31:09 PM
McJUN NOBLEZA shared a personal anecdote about being an uncle of
the cutest baby. He spoke about families and wanting to protect
all children at risk from these chemicals. He offered his
belief that this bill would lower the negative effects of the
majority of consumer products [contain flame retardants]. He
stated that he cares for young children and for future
generations. He thanked the bill sponsor for introducing HB 27.
2:32:27 PM
ZEB SHELDON spoke in support of HB 27. He said he has a three-
year-old baby sister who still runs, plays, and crawls. He
expressed concern about the danger of flame retardants in
children's toys since they pose a higher risk to children that
can lead to cancer, neurological and developmental delays. Even
though these highly toxic flame retardants do not provide a fire
safety benefit they are still contained in items used in
households on a daily basis. He thanked the sponsor for
introducing HB 27.
2:33:39 PM
PAMELA MILLER, Executive Director, Alaska Community Action on
Toxics (ACAT), speaking on behalf of ACAT, said statewide
environmental health research and advocacy organization of
scientists and public health professionals and community
advocates that conducts research and provides educational
programs and training. She stated that ACAT has conducted
research in the Norton Sound region and she offered to provide
the scientific studies to the committee. She shared that ACAT
just published papers concerning the endocrine disrupting
effects of these chemicals. The ACAT has found high levels of
flame retardant chemicals in household dust, blood serum, and
traditional foods of people in the Northern Bering Sea on St.
Lawrence Island. She said the levels were high enough to cause
thyroid disruption.
2:34:44 PM
MS. MILLER countered what was said by the Toy Industry
Association. She said it really was not true that these flame
retardants are not in toys. She has participated in an
international study of polyvinyl chloride toys, including rubber
duckies, jump ropes, and other types of plastic toys. Many of
these toys contained very high levels of flame retardant
chemicals because they are made from recycled plastics that were
recycled from electronics. She stated that the entire class of
organohalogen flame retardants were associated with a range of
adverse health effects. Some were previously mentioned but she
asked to mention several, including cancer, neurodevelopmental
and reproductive toxicity. She pointed out that the developing
brain was very sensitive to these toxic chemicals and learning
deficits persist throughout life.
2:35:36 PM
MS. MILLER reported that the Consumer Product Safety Commission
(CPSC), as recently as 2017, issued an important warning,
recommending that manufacturers, importers, and retailers stop
selling or using products containing the class of related
chemical flame retardants known as organohalogens, which are
included in HB 27. This warning was issued because this entire
class of chemicals has been associated with adverse health
effects. She cautioned that it was not possible to regulate on
a chemical-by-chemical basis. These chemicals are very similar
at a molecular level and affect human bodies in a similar way,
she said. She reiterated the importance of taking a class
approach for these flame retardants since these chemicals have
serious effects. Many states have taken the lead in advance of
federal rulemaking and are taking the CPSC's warning seriously
by instituting policies.
2:36:35 PM
MS. MILLER explained that these flame retardants do not break
down so high levels of chemicals have been found in fish,
wildlife, and people on the St. Lawrence Island in the Bering
Sea. She respectfully asked members to pass this crucial public
health measure. This bill, HB 27, has been receiving strong
support from health care providers, firefighters, Native tribes,
organizations and agencies that serve those people with learning
and developmental disabilities. She offered her belief that
this needed to be taken seriously. She thanked members for
allowing her to testify.
2:37:19 PM
SU CHON stated she was born and raised in Alaska. She offered
her belief that the state government has an obligation to
protect its citizens when the federal government is slow to act.
She wanted to ensure that her home was safe to live. She
reported that Alaskans are disproportionately affected by flame
retardant chemicals. It was scary to learn that Alaska has the
highest rate of birth defects in the nation. Even when
factoring in alcohol and cigarette use, the numbers cannot be
explained, and the state needs to find the root problem, she
said. She stated that 13 states have already adopted policies
to rid flame retardants and 18 additional states are in the
process of adopting similar policies. The name "flame
retardants" was a misnomer. These chemicals do not provide fire
safety benefits and instead flame retardants make fires more
toxic, which was the reason firefighters support the bill, she
said. Alaskans and their children's health deserve to be taken
seriously. She said, "When Alaskans are pleading to protect us,
please protect us." She thanked the sponsor for taking the
initiative to protect the health of Alaskans by sponsoring HB
27.
2:39:28 PM
JACICA KIM spoke in support of HB 27. She stated that HB 27
would phase out flame retardant chemicals in everyday products.
Flame retardants did little to prevent fires, yet they are added
to everything consumers use from couches to computers. This
meant that everyone, including family, friends, and
grandchildren would be exposed to highly toxic chemicals known
to be linked to cancer, hormone disruptions, and
neurodevelopmental delays. Major retailers including IKEA,
Walmart, Ashley Furniture, and Target have already committed to
eliminating flame retardants because of consumer response. She
offered her belief that Alaska can act now and take proactive
action to phase out flame retardants since the federal
government will not, to protect Alaskans and future generations.
She thanked the committee and sponsor.
2:41:00 PM
CO-CHAIR TARR stated she would leave public testimony open and
announced she would hold the bill over. She removed her
objection; therefore, Version D was before the committee as the
working draft.
[HB 27 was held over.]
HB 355-FIRE;FOREST LAND; CRIMES;FIRE PREVENTION
2:41:37 PM
CO-CHAIR TARR announced that the next order of business would be
HOUSE BILL NO. 355, "An Act relating to the crime of criminally
negligent burning; relating to protection of and fire management
on forested land; relating to prohibited acts and penalties for
prohibited acts on forested land; and providing for an effective
date." [Version D]
2:42:09 PM
REPRESENTATIVE RAUSCHER withdrew Amendments 1, 2, and 3.
2:42:25 PM
The committee took a brief at-ease.
2:42:59 PM
CO-CHAIR TARR clarified that Amendment 1 was withdrawn, but that
Amendments 2 and 3 were not offered.
2:43:12 PM
REPRESENTATIVE RAUSCHER moved to adopt proposed Amendment 4,
labeled 30-LS1382\D.6, Radford, 3/2/18, which read:
Page 1, line 3, following "land;":
Insert "requiring the Alaska Supreme Court to
establish a bail schedule;"
Page 6, line 17, through page 7, line 14:
Delete all material and insert:
"Sec. 41.15.960. Bail schedules. The supreme
court shall establish by rule or order a schedule of
bail amounts for offenses under this chapter or under
regulations adopted under this chapter that allow the
disposition of a citation without a court appearance.
The bail amount may not exceed the maximum fine
authorized by law for that offense."
Page 7, following line 21:
Insert a new bill section to read:
"* Sec. 24. The uncodified law of the State of
Alaska is amended by adding a new section to read:
TRANSITION: SCHEDULE OF BAIL AMOUNTS.
Notwithstanding AS 41.15.960, enacted by sec. 21 of
this Act, the supreme court shall establish the bail
schedule required under sec. 21 of this Act within 120
days after the effective date of sec. 21 of this Act."
Renumber the following bill sections accordingly.
Page 7, line 22:
Delete "Section 23 of this Act takes"
Insert "Sections 23 and 24 of this Act take"
Page 7, line 23:
Delete "sec. 24"
Insert "sec. 25"
2:43:17 PM
CO-CHAIR TARR objected for the purpose of discussion.
REPRESENTATIVE RAUSCHER explained that Amendment 4 would require
the Alaska Supreme Court to establish a bail schedule.
2:43:59 PM
JOHN "CHRIS" MAISCH, Director & State Forester, Division of
Forestry, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), said the
division reviewed Amendment 4, consulted with the Department of
Law. The DOL previously consulted with the Alaska Court System.
He stated his support for Amendment 4.
2:44:28 PM
CO-CHAIR TARR removed her objection to Amendment 4.
2:44:30 PM
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON asked whether any technical or legal issues
remain with Amendment 4.
MR. MAISCH offered a technical suggestion on page 2, line 5,
which read, "insert Section 25," which he believed should read,
"insert Section 26."
2:45:18 PM
CO-CHAIR TARR directed attention to Amendment 4 to the
renumbering, which contained a typo.
2:45:45 PM
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON moved to adopt Conceptual Amendment 4, page 2
line 5, to remove "insert Section 25" and insert the language
"insert Section 26."
REPRESENTATIVE RAUSCHER said he had no objection.
There being no further objection, Conceptual Amendment 4 was
adopted.
2:46:15 PM
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON moved to adopt Amendment 5, labeled 30-
LS1382\D.7, Radford, 3/2/18, which read:
Page 5, lines 1 - 2:
Delete "of not more than $5,000"
Insert "under AS 12.55"
CO-CHAIR TARR objected for discussion.
2:46:32 PM
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON spoke to Amendment 5, labeled 30-LS1382\D.7,
Radford, 3/2/18. He related his understanding that because the
penalty could be adjusted it was more seamless and cleaner to
simply refer to AS 12.55.
2:47:07 PM
MR. MAISCH agreed. The bail schedules currently in state law
were about a maximum of $500 so that would align with the bail
schedules and adjust the amount through misdemeanor or felony
charges, as appropriate, he said.
2:47:49 PM
REPRESENTATIVE TALERICO objected for the purpose of discussion.
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON explained.
2:48:55 PM
CO-CHAIR TARR and Representative Talerico removed their
objections. There being no further objection, Amendment 5 was
adopted.
2:49:16 PM
REPRESENTATIVE RAUSCHER declined to offer Amendment 6.
2:49:36 PM
REPRESENTATIVE RAUSCHER moved to adopt Amendment 7, labeled 30-
LS1382\D.9, Radford, 3/6/18, which read:
Page 2, line 12:
Delete "at any time"
Insert ", when responding to a wildland fire or
suspected fire or administering the provisions of this
chapter, [AT ANY TIME]"
2:49:36 PM
CO-CHAIR TARR objected for the purpose of discussion.
REPRESENTATIVE RAUSCHER said Amendment 7 was similar to an
earlier amendment, but it addressed the basic argument. The
amendment would preserve public property rights when forestry
officials can enter onto private property. Deleting the
language on page 2, line 12, "at any time" and inserting "when
responding to wildland fire or suspected fire or administering
the provisions of this chapter," would remove the need for "any
time." This would allow forestry officials to investigate the
reasons for a wildland fire, to look at other properties that
could be affected, but would preserve the homeowner's property
rights to be notified prior to entering the property for other
reasons. He offered his belief that it would solve the problem.
2:51:50 PM
MR. MAISCH stated his support for proposed Amendment 7.
2:52:12 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH suggested that the existing language was
lengthy and difficult to understand, which would only be
worsened with the additional language. He said the language in
[AS 41.15.040] begins with, "Upon approval by the commissioner
or an authorized agent ...." He hoped that they would not do
these things frivolously. He deferred to the department.
2:52:46 PM
CO-CHAIR TARR advised members that this bill has another
committee of referral, so the language could be reviewed
further.
CO-CHAIR TARR removed her objection. There being no further
objection, Amendment 7 was adopted.
2:53:02 PM
CO-CHAIR TARR brought HB 355 back to the committee for
discussion.
2:53:09 PM
REPRESENTATIVE RAUSCHER said there was a peace officer matter he
would like to pursue but he would do so in another committee.
He appreciated the expediency.
2:53:28 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH stated that the definition of forested
land was not what one would guess, but is any land supporting
natural burnable materials and covers everything from a forest
to lichen. He did not wish to sidetrack the committee.
2:54:10 PM
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON moved to report HB 355, Version 30-LS1382\D,
as amended, out of committee with individual recommendations and
the accompanying fiscal notes. There being no objection, CSHB
355(RES) was moved from the House Resources Standing Committee.
HB 330-DNR: DISCLOSURE OF CONFIDENTIAL INFO
2:54:35 PM
CO-CHAIR TARR announced that the final order of business would
be CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 330(JUD), "An Act authorizing the
commissioner of natural resources to disclose confidential
information during a royalty or net profit share audit or appeal
and issue a protective order limiting the persons who have
access to the confidential information."
2:55:19 PM
TIM BISSON, Audit Section Manager, Central Office, Division of
Oil and Gas, Department of Natural Resources, shared a
PowerPoint titled "Protective Orders." He stated that he works
with a team of nine auditors to audit state royalties, net
profit share payments, and federal royalties for the Alaska
Department of Revenue.
2:55:38 PM
MR. BISSON reviewed slide 3, "Royalty Audit Section," which read
as follows [original punctuation provided]:
? The Royalty Audit Section conducts audits of state
royalty and net profit payments, as well as Federal
royalties received from leases within Alaska.
? Since FY03, the section has conducted 91 audits and
collected an additional $270.6 million as a result of
audited payments
? The most common audit issues found during a royalty
audit include incorrect marine/pipeline deductions,
incorrect starting values, and "higher of" calculation
MR. BISSON said that the "higher of" calculation was the reason
for HB 330.
2:56:11 PM
MR. BISSON referred to slide 3, "Computing Royalties," which
read as follows [original punctuation provided]:
? Oil and Gas leases determine the royalty rate and
the method for calculating royalty payments to the
state
? Statutory minimum royalty rate is 12.5%
? All leases define value in relation to the sales of
other producers'
? DNR's royalty is the higher of several values under
the lease terms, including the lessee's field price,
the posted field price and an average value which
includes other lessees' field prices.
? Higher of calculations use other producers
confidential sales information
MR. BISSON stated that in order to arrive at the average of the
other producer's field prices, the division uses confidential
sales information.
2:57:00 PM
MR. BISSON referred to slide 4, "WHY HB 330," which read as
follows [original punctuation provided]:
? Royalty Audit Section relies on confidential price
information from other producers
? Lease provisions require producers to share price
information with the Division
? When an audit is appealed to the Commissioner,
access to confidential sales information by the
audited producer is necessary to provide the auditee
with the higher of audit calculation
? Other producers have refused to voluntarily allow
the Division to share confidential price information
with the audited producer in connection with audits
even when a confidentiality agreement would protect
the information and limits its disclosure
? Currently seven royalty audits totaling $39.2
million are pending due to confidentiality concerns
2:57:26 PM
MR. BISSON reviewed slide 4, noting that the Royalty Audit
Section used confidential price information from producers
when it conducted audits. The lease provisions require
producers to submit their sales contract invoices and other
data to be verified. Once the audit was finished, if it
had a "higher up" claim, the audited lessee would naturally
ask to examine the supporting audit information, which
often contained confidential sales data in the calculation,
he said. He indicated he would refer to the audited
producer as the "audited lessee" and to the other producers
as the "disclosing lessee," since it is the disclosing
lessee's information that the division will be disclosing.
MR. BISSON described the audit process, such that the
division would talk to the disclosing lessee and ask them
if the division can disclose the information using a
confidentiality agreement to the audited lessee. Often
times the [disclosing lessee] would object. He said the
division does not have a really great way forward from
there. The audit division believes that HB 330 would
provide the division with a good solution, he said.
MR. BISSON reported that currently, the division has seven
royalty audits in the appeal process with "higher up"
claims of roughly $39.2 million and as more audits are
completed, the figures will increase.
2:58:34 PM
MR. BISSON referred to slide 5, "What are Protective Orders,"
which read as follows [original punctuation provided]:
? Protective orders are common tools used by courts,
arbitrators, and certain agencies (Administration,
Revenue)
? A typical protective order limits:
o Access who can view/access the information
o Use what the specific use of the information
may be
o Distribution narrows distribution of the
information
o Disposition at the end of use directs return
or destruction of information
? Under HB330:
o Commissioner determines disclosure is necessary
o Notice is given to the owner of the information
o Commissioner issues protective order w/ limits
MR. BISSON said the solution was a protective order to be
issued by the commissioner of the Department of Natural
Resources. He read slide 5, which discusses protective
orders. He explained that the Department of Revenue (DOR),
for oil and gas tax production purposes has a similar right
to issue protective orders with similar lessees.
MR. BISSON added that the protective order would be limited
to providing a solution to the audit with a narrow scope to
those working on the resolution. At the end the
information would be sent back or destroyed, he said.
Under HB 330, the commissioner would determine disclosure
was needed, when an audited lessee wanted to see backup
used for the "higher up" claim. The audit division would
give notice to the disclosing lessee informing the lessee
the information the audit division intended to disclose.
It would give the disclosing lessee an opportunity to be
heard, he said. The disclosing lessee would file any
objections and the audit section of the oil and gas
division would work through them. The commissioner would
ultimately issue the protective order describing any
limits, he said.
3:00:01 PM
MR. BISSON referred to slide 6, "HJUD Amendments," which read as
follows [original punctuation provided]:
Two amendments were adopted in the House Judiciary
committee
1. Technical changes, to
? limit the applicability of this power to oil
and gas issues,
? to clarify that the word "lease" does not
modify the words "appeal" or "request for
reconsideration," (this change was mooted by
amendment 2) and
? to ensure that net profit share audits are
captured by this section, as net profit share
payments are not considered royalty payments
2. Narrowed the scope of the bill to royalty audits
only.
? The bill previously included geologic and
geophysical data under protective order
MR. BISSON reviewed slide 6, stating that the initial bill
was for the whole department and the House Judiciary
Committee adopted two amendments. The House Judiciary
Committee narrowed the scope in Amendment 1 to oil and gas
issues. It clarified the meaning of "lease" to ensure it
did not modify "appeal" or "request for reconsideration."
It added the term "net profit share payments" to be certain
those were also captured.
MR. BISSON stated that Amendment 2 narrowed the scope of
the bill to royalty audits only. Previously it could have
been used for geological or physical data, he said.
3:00:51 PM
MR. BISSON referred to slide 7, "HB330," which read as follows
[original punctuation provided]:
Section 1:
New provision adding to the Commissioner of Natural
Resources duties and powers to include determining
whether a disclosure is required for a royalty or NPSL
audit, appeal or reconsideration
Mandates that if the commissioner determines
disclosure is necessary, notice and opportunity to be
heard must be provided to those affected Allows the
commissioner to issue a protective order limiting the
persons who may have access to the information and the
purposes for which it must be used
Section 2:
Conforming language to allow protective order to be
issued as it relates to cost data and financial
information submitted in support of applications,
bonds, leases and similar items
Section 3:
Conforming language to statutes dealing with
punishment for divulging confidential information
allowing for protective orders to view confidential
information during royalty or NPSL audits or appeals
MR. BISSON paraphrased the section-by-section analysis of the
bill as reflected on slide 7.
3:01:44 PM
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH asked how the calculation worked for
"royalty in kind." He related his understanding that the state
reserves an option to have barrels of oil rather than a check.
MR. BISSON explained that this only applied to royalty-in-value
barrels. The royalty-in-kind was totally separate and covered
by contract.
3:02:19 PM
REPRESENTATIVE BIRCH mused that it was a different arrangement
depending on the location, contract, and producer.
MR. BISSON responded that the royalty-in-kind contract requires
the division to do nominations for those barrels; and everything
remaining outside the royalty-in-kind contract would be taken in
value. The companies sell the barrels and pay the state its
royalties, he said.
3:02:46 PM
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON directed attention to slide 4, bullet 4,
which read as follows [original punctuation provided]:
? Other producers have refused to voluntarily allow
the Division to share confidential price information
with the audited producer in connection with audits
even when a confidentiality agreement would protect
the information and limits its disclosure
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON recalled him stating that other producers
have not voluntarily allowed the sharing of confidential price
information. He asked if they could be compelled or was the
bill about assuaging their concerns with proprietary
information, so everyone agrees by consent to do so.
MR. BISSON responded that the solutions the Royalty Audit
Section currently has would require them to obtain a protective
order in court and the audit section of the oil and gas division
does not want to do so because it takes up the court, the
division, and the company's time. The proposed HB 330 provides
the preferred method, he said.
3:03:58 PM
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON asked if everyone was on the same page. He
asked whether there was any prearrangement as to the language.
MR. BISSON explained that the audit section of the oil and gas
division has used some confidentiality agreements in the past
and has used language that has been acceptable to companies.
3:04:42 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH asked about the $39.2 million in pending
audits on slide 4 and if any were concerned about geological or
geophysical data.
MR. BISSON answered no; that the auditors do not use geological
or geophysical data for the "higher up" claims.
3:05:07 PM
REPRESENTATIVE DRUMMOND asked if the state would realize more
revenue if the bill passed and issue was resolved.
MR. BISSON answered that the bill would create an opportunity to
resolve the audits. He acknowledged that other issues exist, so
he could not answer. He offered his belief that the bill would
remove a current hurdle for auditors.
REPRESENTATIVE DRUMMOND acknowledged that HB 330 would help
resolve audits.
MR. BISSON said he hoped so.
3:05:53 PM
REPRESENTATIVE PARISH asked if outstanding royalty monies
collected interest.
MR. BISSON answered yes.
3:06:19 PM
KARA MORIARTY, President/CEO, Alaska Oil & Gas Association
(AOGA), stated that AOGA, a private trade association,
represented the majority of oil and gas producers, explorers,
refiners and transporters of oil and gas. She said AOGA
recognizes the administration's efforts to address the potential
issues surrounding royalty audits and appeals.
3:07:09 PM
MS. MORIARTY said unfortunately, the AOGA does not support HB
330 in its current form and has conveyed the two concerns to the
Department of Natural Resources. If these concerns were
addressed, it would provide further clarity for the stakeholders
while preserving the administration's intent as expressed in the
transmittal letter and by today's presentation, she said.
MS. MORIARTY highlighted two concerns: HB 330 should have
language to exempt royalty settlement agreements from being
included as part of these efforts. The reason AOGA would like
this was because these agreements are contractual agreements
between the state and the company and vary based on terms of
agreement. Royalty settlement agreements often contain other
legal restrictions regarding the disclosure of confidential
information to a party not subject to the contractual agreement.
She offered her belief that exempting royalty settlement
agreements would not interfere with what DNR is trying to
achieve.
3:08:31 PM
MS. MORIARTY explained the second concern, such that it was in
regard to which individuals from the parties involved under the
protective order would have access to confidential information
during a royalty audit or appeal. The AOGA believes that HB 330
should limit release of confidential information to only those
individuals who are directly involved in the royalty audit or
appeal and not those individuals who may work outside of such
matters. She suggested that the language should be tightened up
to limit the release of the confidential information during
these types of audits or appeals to those people who are
actually working on the protective order. The AOGA has kept an
open dialogue with the DNR since the bill was introduced. She
reiterated that AOGA cannot support the current version of the
bill but would like to continue to work toward resolution of
these two issues, she said.
3:09:52 PM
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON asked if those concerns had been brought to
House Judiciary Standing Committee.
MS. MORIARTY answered no; because the House Judiciary Standing
Committee hearing happened pretty quickly, and the member
companies had not fully analyzed the bill at that time public
testimony was scheduled.
CO-CHAIR JOSEPHSON understood how that could happen.
[HB 330 was held over.]
3:11:31 PM
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the committee, the House
Resources Standing Committee meeting was adjourned at 3:11 p.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| HB 355 Amendment Four - D.6 - Rep. Rauscher 3.2.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB 355 Amendment Five - D.7 - 3.2.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB 355 Amendment Seven - Rep. Rauscher 3.7.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB 355 Sectional Analysis 2.21.18.pdf |
HRES 2/28/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 2/28/2018 6:00:00 PM HRES 3/5/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB 355 Sponsor Statement 2.21.18.pdf |
HRES 2/28/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 2/28/2018 6:00:00 PM HRES 3/5/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB 355 Supporting Document- Expanded One Pager 2.21.18.pdf |
HRES 2/28/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 2/28/2018 6:00:00 PM HRES 3/5/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB 355 Ver A 2.21.18.pdf |
HRES 2/28/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 2/28/2018 6:00:00 PM HRES 3/5/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| Law Fiscal Note, HB 355.pdf |
HRES 2/28/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 2/28/2018 6:00:00 PM HRES 3/5/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB 355 Supporting Document- Alaska Fire Chiefs Letter of Support 2.28.18.pdf |
HRES 2/28/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 2/28/2018 6:00:00 PM HRES 3/5/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB 355 Opposition-Squyres Graphic.pdf |
HRES 3/5/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB 355 Opposition-Squyres Testimony.pdf |
HRES 3/5/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB330 ver A 2.16.18.pdf |
HJUD 2/16/2018 1:00:00 PM HJUD 2/21/2018 1:00:00 PM HJUD 2/23/2018 1:30:00 PM HJUD 2/26/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/12/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 330 |
| HB330 Transmittal Letter 2.16.18.pdf |
HJUD 2/16/2018 1:00:00 PM HJUD 2/21/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/12/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 330 |
| HB330 Fiscal Note DNR-DOG 2.16.18.pdf |
HJUD 2/16/2018 1:00:00 PM HJUD 2/21/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/12/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 330 |
| HB330 Opposing Document-UCM Letter 2.21.18.pdf |
HJUD 2/21/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/12/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 330 |
| HB330 Proposed Amendment 2.23.18.pdf |
HJUD 2/23/2018 1:30:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 330 |
| HB330 Amendments #1-2 2.26.18.pdf |
HJUD 2/26/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 330 |
| HB330 Amendments #1-2 HJUD Final Vote 2.26.18.pdf |
HJUD 2/26/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/12/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 330 |
| HB 27 Sponsor Statement 3.8.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/19/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/26/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 4/2/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 4/4/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 27 |
| HB 27 Ver. D bill 3.8.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/19/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/26/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 4/2/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 4/4/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 27 |
| HB 27 Version A 1.18.17.PDF |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/19/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 4/4/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 27 |
| HB 27 Version D Sectional Analysis 3.8.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/19/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/26/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 4/2/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 4/4/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 27 |
| HB 27 Fiscal Note DEC 3-2-18 HIGH-RISK CHEMICALS FOR CHILD EXPOSURE 3.8.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/19/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/26/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 4/2/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 4/4/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 27 |
| HB 27 Flame Retardents - Consumer Product Safety Commission 9-28-17.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/19/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/26/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 27 |
| HB 27 Supporting Document - Consumer Product Chemicals in Indoor Dust Analysis 3.8.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/19/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/26/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 27 |
| HB 27 Supporting Document - Household dust factsheet 3.8.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/19/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/26/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 27 |
| HB 27 Supporting Document 5 Support Emails 3.8.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/19/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/26/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 27 |
| HB 27 Supporting Document -20 Support Letters 3.8.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/19/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/26/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 27 |
| HB 355 Supporting Document - Letter DOF Fire Program Mgt 3.8.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB 330 Overview Presentation by DNR 3.8.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/12/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/14/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 330 |
| HB 355 Amendment One - D.2 - Rep. Rauscher 3.1.18.pdf |
HRES 3/5/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB 355 Amendment Two - D.3 - Rep Rauscher 3.1.18.pdf |
HRES 3/5/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB 355 Amendment Three - D.4 - Rep. Rauscher 3.1.18.pdf |
HRES 3/5/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB 355 Amendment Six - Rep. Rauscher 3.7.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 355 |
| HB 27 Flame Retardants Presentation.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/19/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/26/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 27 |
| HB 27 Supporting Document - Testimony - Talley 3.9.18.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/19/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/26/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 27 |
| HB 27 Supporting Document - Safer States laws.pdf |
HRES 3/9/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/19/2018 1:00:00 PM HRES 3/26/2018 1:00:00 PM |
HB 27 |