Gov. Jerry Brown is calling for changes to state flammability standards for upholstered furniture in an effort to reduce the use of what he says are toxic flame retardants.

Brown said in a statement on Monday that a growing body of evidence shows chemicals used as retardants harm human health and the environment.

He has asked state officials to update California's flammability guidelines to reflect modern manufacturing methods that can lower the use of harmful chemicals.

Brown says the revision process will include workshops and opportunity for public comment.

Supporters of the governor's move say in addition to harming human health, the retardants are ineffective at preventing fires.