The governor says there's growing evidence that the chemicals used as retardants can harm human health as well as the environment.
Studies of California women have found toxic flame retardants turning up in breast tissue and also leading to reduced fertility.
The governor has asked state officials to update the state'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.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
