Months after Washington passed a "toxic toys" bill aimed at limited lead, phthalates and cadmium levels, Congress is reportedly poised to pass a bill setting national standards for lead and phthalates in toys and other childrens' goods.

According to the Washington Toxics Coalition, a U.S. House vote was slated for today, with a Senate vote likely on Friday. The coalition says the bill bans some phthalates (which are used to make plastics softer and more durable) and reduces allowable lead levels.

This spring, state Rep. Mary Lou Dickerson, D-Seattle, championed a bill that proponents called the toughest toxic-toys legislation in the country. Washington's law is tougher than the federal bill, and covers things like kids' cosmetics and the materials in car seats.

A dozen states considered such bills this year, according to the coalition.

---

---