Perchloroethylene

California will become the first state to phase out the use of perchloroethylene, or perc, a chemical used by commercial dry cleaners that has been linked in studies to bladder, esophageal and other cancers.

California is poised to become the first state to phase out the main chemical used by dry cleaners, following a unanimous vote by the state's Air Resources Board on Thursday to develop a plan to eliminate perchloroethylene -- or "perc." Citing health risks to workers, nearby residents and businesses, the board took the action despite industry protests and a contrary recommendation by its own staff. The South Coast Air Quality Management District enacted the first ban anywhere in the U.S.

A hazardous waste handler was sentenced Wednesday to 37 months in federal prison and ordered to pay a $1.29-million fine for conspiring to violate federal environmental laws, authorities said. Hormoz Pourat, 45, of Encino was also prohibited from engaging in any business dealing with hazardous waste for three years, Assistant U.S. Atty. Gen. Thomas L. Sansonetti said.