Pennsylvania’s Mercury Reduction Rule
In February 2006, Governor Edward G. Rendell proposed for Pennsylvania a state-specific mercury reduction plan that protects the market for bituminous coal while ensuring vastly greater protections to improve the environment and keep residents healthy and safe. The Governor’s plan, which took effect Sat. Feb. 17, 2007, supersedes a weaker rule advanced by the federal government.
This issue is of serious concern to many. Toxicologists, medical experts, labor leaders, teacher associations, religions, sportsmen and conservation organizations have weighed in with strong statements in support of the state rule.
A 60-day public comment period and three public hearings drew 10,934 responses on the Governor’s plan --- a new record for a rulemaking in Pennsylvania. Of the 10,934 comments, fewer than three dozen opposed the state plan. The rest supported Governor Rendell’s approach over an ineffective federal rule that does little to protect Pennsylvanians or clean up our environment.
Governor Rendell’s plan will cut mercury emissions faster and more substantially than the federal plan, achieving at least 90 percent mercury reduction by 2015.
Mercury is a persistent, bio-accumulative neurotoxin that can remain active in the environment for more than 10,000 years. It endangers pregnant women, the unborn, young children and other vulnerable populations. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency scientists report that more than one child in six born in the United States could be at risk of having developmental disorders as a result of mercury exposure in the mother’s womb.
Related Info:
