Document QJb2MpVb5K2anpa7nojnRqLE

to. 17.LJQ FEB 1 91976 ^ *0 Bill would require chemical OK Otfaway News Servlet WASHINGTON -- The Senate Commerce Committee has approved legislation which would require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to certify the safety, of chemical products before they are brought on to the market. The legislation grew out of the controversy surrounding PCB's* a class of chemicals used In making electrical equipment. These highly toxic chemicals have been found In increasing quantities in waters throughout the United Slates. By the time the nature of the problem was discovered, however, much environmental damage had already occurred. "This legislation would control hazards before they become evident," said Sen. Warren Magnuson <D-Wash), the chairman of the Commerce Committee. The bill now goes to the Senate floor for action. The House passed a similar bill last year. MQNS 033103