A range of industry representatives are asking state regulators to exempt what they sell from the state’s looming forever chemical ban, claiming their products deserve a free pass because they are essential for the health, safety and functioning of society.

The makers of products ranging from cookware to massage chairs to air fresheners dominated the Thursday hearing of the Board of Environmental Protection, arguing that Maine consumers would spend more and be less safe without the chemicals used to make their pans, chairs and bottle caps.

“The Federal Drug Administration confirmed that (the nonstick coating) in cookware is safe,” said Kevin Messner, a vice president with Groupe SEB, the world’s largest cookware manufacturer. “That has been an FDA determination on cookware since the 60s,

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