In “Next steps toward safer chemicals” (Aug. 10 Point of View), Jessica Burroughs reminds us that our country’s system of chemical regulation is tragically broken, leaving all of us vulnerable to toxins found in everyday products, such as air fresheners, plastics and toys. We need to keep in mind that, due to their smaller body masses and blood volumes, our children are the most vulnerable to these toxic challenges.
While rates of asthma, diabetes, childhood cancers and learning and behavioral disorders keep going up, the federal system that should offer protection hasn’t changed in 36 years.
The good news is that Congress is finally getting serious about updating and strengthening the regulatory system, and it is occurring with significant support from industry. In fact, the Safe Chemicals Act (S847) recently passed a Senate committee. However, the bill will move no further without the involvement of all of us. Our congressional leaders need to hear from fellow North Carolinians that it is time to take this meaningful step to protect our families – and particularly our children – from toxic chemicals that are harmful. Our children deserve no less.
Deborah Bryan
President and CEO, Action for Children North Carolina
Raleigh