New law requires green cleaning in CT schools

HARTFORD, CT — Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell yesterday signed Bill 6496 into law, requiring local and regional public school districts to use green cleaning products, according to a press release.

The new law requires school districts to have a green cleaning program in place by July 1, 2011, to help ensure a healthier environment for students, faculty and staff, the release stated.

Governor Rell said: "Schools are places of great promise for our children, where dedicated teachers and staff help shape and guide their futures. We can now color that future green, as well. This law will help ensure a healthy environment for everyone who walks through the doors of public schools in Connecticut."

According to the release, during the legislative process, proponents testified that nearly one-quarter of cleaning chemicals used in schools are toxic and significantly affect indoor air quality (IAQ).

The environmentally preferable products, which must meet nationally certified guidelines and be approved by the State Department of Administrative Services, include: General-purpose cleaners; restroom, glass and carpet cleaners; hand cleaners and soaps; floor finishes; and floor strippers, the release noted.

The law also requires the types of cleaners used and the methods employed be made public, the release added.

Click here to read the complete release.