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Public comment urges stricter limits on synthetic turf chemicals
Summary
A public commenter warned that the rubber infill used in synthetic turf fields contains multiple chemical hazards and urged the commission and its community health committee to report back on protections for children and vulnerable groups.
During the general public comment period Jennifer Fields, identifying herself as an actress and mother, urged the commission to prioritize children nd vulnerable communities over industry profit when addressing synthetic turf fields and their rubber infill.
Fields cited specific chemicals she said are present in recycled tire infill mong them lead, phthalates, butadiene, styrene, benzene and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons nd criticized industry-funded safety studies. She said parents and communities want protections and asked the commission to consider stricter local standards.
A commissioner suggested the Community Public Health Committee receive a department report on the issue; Director Garcia and staff agreed to pursue follow-up so the commission can evaluate potential local action and discuss whether the department should prepare analysis for committee review.
No formal action or votes were taken on the public comment; staff were asked to consider including the topic for a future committee report.
