LANSING, Mich., Jan. 17, 2023 — A bill to regulate the lead leachate levels for tableware was reintroduced today with bipartisan support by state Rep. Julie M. Rogers (D-Kalamazoo). House Bill 4030 would regulate the lead leachate levels for tableware, which become elevated when a chemical substance, such as lead, moves from an object or surface to a liquid when exposed. Cases of lead leaching into drinks or food after coming into contact with tableware have been shown to cause long-term negative health outcomes.
“As a practicing physical therapist, I have firsthand knowledge of the dangers that leaching can cause,” Rogers said. “One of my patients experienced balance issues that progressively worsened despite our best attempts to treat the issue. It wasn’t until a heavy metal panel blood test was performed that we became aware that my patient was experiencing the side effects of lead exposure from a coffee mug he drank out of every morning that was painted with lead-based paint. This bill would ensure that the tableware we use every day would be further protected from lead exposure so others can avoid similar health complications.”
The United States Food and Drug Administration currently regulates the amount of lead that is allowed to leach from tableware but only to a certain degree. HB 4030 would set the acceptable lead leaching levels from tableware below the FDA-set regulations — resulting in a much higher level of safety. This bill will result in a much higher level of safety and take the necessary next steps to ensure the protection of all Michiganders from the dangers of lead exposure.
###