Health groups push ban on DEHP in medical devices and broader microplastic measures
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Summary
Public‑health and environmental advocates urged the committee to pass S.247, which would restrict DEHP in medical devices, ban additional microbead uses, and preclude chemical‑recycling practices that emit harmful pollutants; advocates cited FDA guidance, state precedents and available alternatives.
Advocates testified in support of S.247, which contains three main provisions: (1) phase out DEHP (di‑ethylhexyl phthalate) in certain medical devices and solution containers; (2) expand the microbead ban to include non‑rinse personal care products and cleaning products; and (3) prohibit ‘‘chemical recycling’’ or pyrolysis processes that can produce high emissions.
Laura Gillen, senior program and policy manager for Breast Cancer Prevention Partners, told the committee “S.247 ensures that medical devices do not expose patients to DEHP,” calling DEHP “an extremely toxic phthalate used to soften PVC plastic” and a “known endocrine disrupting compound” linked to cancer and reproductive harms. Gillen urged the committee to retain broad device coverage (including enteral and respiratory tubing), not limit the bill solely to intravenous tubing, and noted that approved, safer alternatives exist.
Alexis Stroud of the Vermont Public Interest Research Group said the bill is a feasible suite of steps: banning chemical recycling technologies that resemble incineration, phasing out DEHP in devices where alternatives are available, and closing microbead loopholes that allow microplastics to enter waterways and food chains. Stroud said Vermont has precedent for action and that modest producer accountability would not impose an onerous administrative burden.
Committee members asked about hospital cost and supply impacts; advocates said manufacturers already supply DEHP‑free alternatives in other states and urged transition support rather than delay. No vote was taken; stakeholders offered written testimony for follow‑up.
Ending: Committee staff will collect written materials from advocates and manufacturers to clarify transition timelines and procurement impacts for hospitals and health systems.
