Fragrance free schools

published 3/28/2007

Minneapolis schools could be going fragrance free in an effort to curb asthma attacks by students and teachers.

Sponsored by Rep. Karen Clark (DFL-Mpls), HF2148 would create a working group that includes students, teachers, a school administrator and one member of the Board of Education to recommend an education campaign to inform students and parents about the potentially harmful effects of fragrance products. Also, the health commissioner would develop a fragrance free schools education pilot program.

The House Housing Policy and Finance and Public Health Finance Division held it over for possible omnibus bill inclusion. It was previously approved by the House K-12 Finance Division.

Supporters say it is needed because of increased cases of asthma amongst students, and that the American Lung Association said that fragrances do trigger asthma attacks.

According to a written statement from the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association there is no scientific evidence linking fragrances and scented products to any adverse health effects.

A companion bill, SF1956, sponsored by Sen. Patricia Torres Ray (DFL-Mpls), awaits action by the Senate Health, Housing, and Family Security Committee.

- Mike Cook