CONSUMER PROTECTION
Bans on germ killer triclosan kicking in
Minnesota’s first-in-the nation ban on soaps containing the germ-killer triclosan takes effect Jan. 1, but the people who spearheaded the law say it’s already having a positive effect nationally. The federal government caught up to Minnesota’s 2014 decision with its own ban, which takes effect next September. But manufacturers have largely phased out the chemical already. ‘‘I wanted it to change the national situation with triclosan, and it certainly has contributed to that,’’ state Senator John Marty, an author of Minnesota’s ban, said of the law. Triclosan once was widely used, but studies show it could disrupt sex and thyroid hormones and other functions and contribute to the development of resistant bacteria. In September, the FDA banned triclosan and 18 other antibacterial chemicals from soaps but allowed some triclosan in products such as Colgate Total toothpaste, to prevent gingivitis. — ASSOCIATED PRESS
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SOCIAL MEDIA
Israel may mandate deletion of inciteful Web posts
Israeli courts could demand that Facebook remove content deemed to be incitement under a bill that headed for parliamentary review. It would give Israel tools ‘‘to have content liable to lead to murder and terror removed immediately,’’ Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan said Sunday. He and Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked have pushed the bill even though Facebook agreed in September to create teams to deal with Internet incitement. Facebook, Microsoft, Twitter, and YouTube said earlier this month that they were creating a shared database to help enforce policies against terrorist content. On Sunday, Facebook said it hopes to continue a ‘‘constructive dialogue’’ with Israel that includes ‘‘careful consideration of the implications of this bill” for democracy. The Israel Democracy Institute called the bill ‘‘an assault on freedom of expression on an international scale.’’ — BLOOMBERG NEWS
INSURANCE
Is your policy winter-proof?
Massachusetts officials say it’s a good time for homeowners and motorists to review their insurance because consumers can be hit with big bills if their policies don’t cover the types of damage winter can bring. Officials say claims should be made as soon as possible; taking notes and photos of damage can be a big help. Some policies cover temporary housing after a damaging storm, they noted. — ASSOCIATED PRESS
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