Alliance for a Clean and Healthy Maine > Campaigns > Executive Order Promoting Safer Chemicals ( DNN 4.3.5 )

Overview | Text | Governor's Task Force | Green Purchasing

On February 22, 2006, Governor John Baldacci issued an Executive Order calling for state action to promote safer alternatives to toxic chemicals in household products as a way to protect the health of Maine people and the environment, and to create new economic opportunities. Titled "An Order Promoting Safer Chemicals in Consumer Products and Services," the Executive Order will reduce state purchasing of toxic products and reduce pesticide use around state office buildings as well as increase public education on the availability of safer alternatives to products in the home that contain hazardous chemicals.

Maine children witness Governor John Baldacci's signing of the Executive Order.

To further research and assess the extent of problems associated with toxic chemical exposure in Maine, the Governor convened the Task Force to Promote Safer Chemicals in Consumer Products. In December 2007, the Task Force issued its Final Report calling for a comprehensive chemicals policy; expanded consumer and retailer education; and establishing a Maine Innovation Economic Advisory Board.

Governor Baldacci took a bold step in issuing this Executive Order. The Alliance for a Clean and Healthy Maine worked closely with The Governor's staff and department heads to develop the Order. It is precedent-setting in that no other state has taken such a bold step calling for the development of safer consumer products that are good for our families and economy. This will provide a foundation on which Maine can build an economy free of unnecessary, toxic chemicals that build up in our bodies and threaten the health of our families.

Please consider writing a letter of appreciation to Governor Baldacci. His contact information follows:

governor@maine.gov

Office of the Governor
#1 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0001

Phone: 287-3531; 287-6548 (TTY)
Fax: 287-1034

Overview | Page 1 of 4 | Text