Senate Committee
Commerce
Chair: James P. Metzen
Vice Chair: Vicki Jensen
Ranking Minority Member: Paul E. Gazelka
For more information, visit the committee’s page on the Senate website.
Current Members
-
David M. Brown
District 15 -
Jim Carlson
District 51 -
Bobby Joe Champion
District 59 -
Kevin L. Dahle
District 20 -
Gary H. Dahms
District 16 -
Michelle L. Fischbach
District 13 -
Paul E. Gazelka
District 09 -
Barb Goodwin
District 41 -
Karin Housley
District 39 -
Vicki Jensen
District 24 -
Ron Latz
District 46 -
James P. Metzen
District 52 -
Sandra L. Pappas
District 65 -
Eric R. Pratt
District 55 -
Roger J. Reinert
District 07
Record On Conservation Issues
SF 2330: Ban toxic flame-retardants from upholstery and children’s products (March 30, 2016)
In 2015, the Legislature banned four toxic flame-retardants from furniture and children’s’ products. These chemicals have been associated with increased risk of cancer in firefighters and other health risks. This bill expands the ban to the remaining six flame-retardants.
How the Committee Voted
The bill is approved and moves on to a vote by the whole Senate.
SF 1099: Bill to require manufacturer reporting of priority chemicals in children’s products (March 18, 2015)
Provides a process for manufacturers to report to the Pollution Control Agency (PCA) regarding priority chemicals contained in children’s products, so that state agencies may create consumer information to facilitate informed consumer product choices.
How the Committee Voted
The bill is approved and moves on to the Senate Finance Committee.
SF 466: Toxic Free Kids Act (March 13, 2013)
Currently, manufacturers don’t need to disclose if the products they sell in Minnesota contain even the most toxic chemicals known to affect the health of children. The Toxic Free Kids Act requires manufacturers to report this to the state, giving… Continue reading
How the Committee Voted
The committee voted down this bill. It will not be heard in any other committees.
SF379: Banning Bisphenol A in children’s food packaging (March 13, 2013)
Bisphenol A is a toxic chemical linked to heart disease, cancer, and developmental and neurological problems. Children are particularly at risk from exposure. SF 379 bans Bisphenol A in children’s food packaging.
How the Committee Voted
The committee voted to pass the bill and send it to the Senate Floor.
SF357: Banning formaldehyde in children’s soap and shampoo (March 13, 2013)
Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of formaldehyde, including asthma, chronic bronchitis and other respiratory problems. Formaldehyde is often added to shampoo, soap, body wash, and body lotions, and isn’t labeled as an ingredient, making it difficult for parents… Continue reading
How the Committee Voted
The committee voted to pass the bill and send it to the Senate Floor.