A number of states have enacted restrictions on the amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) allowable in certain automotive care products. VOCs are common chemical ingredients (primarily solvents) found in a variety of consumer products ranging from wood preservatives to underarm deodorants.When emitted into the atmosphere during storage or use, VOCs can cause adverse health effects and are a major component of ground-level ozone. The health problems include eye, nose and throat irritation; shortness of breath; headaches; loss of coordination; nausea; and damage to the liver, kidneys and central nervous system.In 1991, California began regulating VOCs by setting emission limits by product and product category, and has expanded the number of categories monitored since then. Maryland, Delaware, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maine, northern Virginia and the District of Columbia adopted California's restrictions in 2005 and, in 2007, Michigan and New Hampshire did, as well.Similar restrictions are also being considered in Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. Additional states (and possibly the entire country) are expected to adopt these restrictions, as well.The specific automotive product categories now regulated are:Air freshenersAutomotive rubbing or polishing compoundsAutomotive waxes, polishes, sealants & glazesAutomotive windshield washer fluidsBug & tar removersCarpet/upholstery cleanersEngine degreasersFabric protectantsGeneral purpose cleanersGeneral purpose degreasersGlass cleanersMetal polishes/cleanersRubber/vinyl protectants (dressings)Spot removersUndercoatingsCar Brite has introduced VOC compliant versions of popular products in these regulated categories, and will continue to do so. The Car Brite Product Information Sheets (found in the Products section) designate whether a product is VOC Compliant.