SCHAKOWSKY OPPOSES BUSH ADMINISTRATION PROPOSED MERCURY STANDARDS

FEBRUARY 25, 2004

SCHAKOWSKY OPPOSES BUSH ADMINISTRATION PROPOSED MERCURY STANDARDS

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) today released the following statement at a news conference held by environmental and consumer advocates in reaction to the Bush Administration's proposed rules to weaken mercury emissions. Schakowsky is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

Below is Schakowsky's statement:

"I am pleased that the Environmental Protection Agency has agreed to my request to hold a public hearing in Chicago on the Bush Administration's proposed rules to weaken mercury emissions control standards.

"The EPA will now have an opportunity to hear from many people in the Chicago-area about what it would mean if more mercury is allowed into Lake Michigan-our source of fresh drinking water, the impact mercury has on pregnant women and young children, and the effects additional mercury pollution would have on our state economy.

"It is unconscionable that the Bush Administration is intent on weakening environmental protections knowing that the likely victims are the young and most vulnerable among us. The net effect of the proposed regulations may actually increase mercury emissions compared to the limits in current law. That is a policy that must be rejected for the sake of public health and our environment.

"The public will not stand for this latest attack and I commend Illinois PIRG, advocates, and families who refuse to remain silent."