Mandated green cleaning in Connecticut schools

HARTFORD, CT — A law that passed the state Senate yesterday will require schools across the State of Connecticut to develop green cleaning programs by 2011, according to the News-Times.

Bill 6496, which is awaiting the signature of Governor M. Jodi Rell, requires cleaning products, including general-purpose cleaners, glass cleaners, floor finishes, floor strippers, hand cleansers and soaps, be certified by Green Seal or EcoLogo, the story stated.

The law does not apply to disinfectants, disinfecting cleaners or other products regulated by the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), the story noted.

According to the story, the law takes effect July 1, 2011, and gives districts time to use the products already on hand rather than throwing them away.

Representative Chris Lyddy said: "Kids can't learn and teachers can't teach when they are in an environment that negatively impacts their health. We owe it to our children to provide the best learning environment that we possibly can. This legislation is a bold step in the direction of protecting our children. I believe prevention is the best intervention to any issue."

Connecticut laws now regulate environmental issues affecting schools that range from monitoring indoor air quality, requiring environmentally green construction and renovations and restricting pesticides in school buildings and on school grounds, the story added.