U.S. imports, sale of carcinogenic products

Re “U.S. Rules Allow the Sale of Products Others Ban,” Oct. 8

The fact that our country imports and uses carcinogenic-containing plywood banned in Europe, Japan and even China is another kick in the teeth to the American image. We already have ample proof that voluntary restraints do not work. Yes, a few good companies build to the highest standard but, as your article plainly shows, many do not.

U.S. innovators such as Columbia Forest Products get the short end of the stick when the competition can ship carcinogen-containing products. Warning labels should be required on the tainted plywood all the way to the final consumer. It might read: “Warning: A Bush administration voluntary product.”

ROBERT SIEBERT

Orange

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Once again the American public is indebted to more progressive governments that ban toxic substances in widely used products. We are at the mercy of business interests that seek only bottom-line profits. Certainly we cannot rely on our Congress to look out for our well-being. Businesses that are required to adjust standards to sell abroad are finding it difficult to make two different products -- one for the American market, which permits the poisoning of citizens, and one for the rest of the world, where citizens are protected by governments that are mindful of their safety. If it were not for the rest of the world, we would indeed be hopeless and helpless.

JOAN MORRISON

Costa Mesa