Some flame retardant-riddled products to be banned in NY

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- Mattresses, upholstered furniture, and electronic displays riddled with flame retardant chemicals will be banned from sale in New York effective December 1. This only applies to new items, not pre-owned.

Flame retardant chemicals are added to these items to prevent the starting or spreading of fire. The Department of Environmental Conservation said that while this is the case, these chemicals are also associated with adverse health effects in animals and humans.

The chemicals are also difficult to break down, leading to them sitting in the environment or homes for years. The DEC recommends that anyone selling these items checks with their supplier to confirm that the chemicals have not been intentionally added before selling them.