Lyddy, McKinney Advocate

For Green Cleaning Products

Newtown Representative Christopher Lyddy joined with a bipartisan coalition, including Senate Republican Leader John McKinney, the co-chairs of the Education Committee, and advocacy groups to support House Bill 6469, An Act Concerning Green Cleaning Products in Schools, at a press conference May 5. 

Since hazardous cleaning chemicals have long been recognized as contributors to Connecticut’s growing asthma problem, the group used World Asthma Day to bring attention to the school children, cleaning workers, and teachers that are on the front lines of exposure in the schools.

“This legislation moves Connecticut schools towards a cost-effective and safer solution for cleaning schools,” said Rep Lyddy.  “As an asthma sufferer, this issue is especially important to me. The state needs to do more to ensure that students and teachers are not exposed to harsh cleaning products in our schools. Every child and school employee has a right to an environmentally safe and healthy learning environment.” 

The types of cleaning products covered in this legislation include: general purpose cleaners, glass cleaners, floor finishes, floor strippers, hand cleansers and soaps, but does not impact any disinfectant, disinfecting cleaner, sanitizer, or other antimicrobial products.

With no cost to the state and a potential savings for towns, the bill recently passed the House of Representatives and is now headed to the Senate for a vote.