SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Today, the Minnesota House of Representatives approved legislation to prohibit the use of trichloroethylene (TCE). The bill, authored by Rep. Ami Wazlawik (DFL – White Bear Township), will protect Minnesotans from the toxic chemical, which can increase risks for certain types of cancer and other serious health issues.
“No Minnesotan should experience preventable health risks due to exposure to toxic chemicals,” said Rep. Wazlawik, who led the push to prohibit TCE in Minnesota. “Today, after months of hard work with community members, we were able to pass a strong TCE ban with bipartisan support. I’m grateful to the White Bear Area Neighborhood Concerned Citizens Group who fought tirelessly to make this bill possible. Thanks to their efforts, Minnesotans will no longer be exposed to TCE.”
The legislation prohibits the use of TCE after June 1, 2022. Facilities with air quality permits will need to replace the chemical with a safer, less toxic alternative by that date. The bill also provides $250,000 in interest-free loans to help small businesses reduce their TCE usage.
The Minnesota Senate passed the bill with overwhelming bipartisan support two weeks ago. Governor Walz is expected to sign it into law, making Minnesota the first state to ban TCE.