I am deeply troubled by the proposed 23 percent cut to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This reduction will devastate the agency and cripple its ability to rein in polluters to protect public health.
We need the EPA. For decades the Harrisburg Incinerator pumped its heavy metals and dioxin into the region. In fact, while it was operating, it was among the largest dioxin polluters in the country. Dioxin is an extremely toxic and persistent chemical, known to cause cancer, reproductive and developmental issues, immune system damage, and hormonal interference.
I was part of group that tried for years to use public pressure to get the state to close down the facility. Nothing. It wasn’t until December 2000, when the EPA stepped in and closed down the incinerator until it could operate safely. Only the EPA had the power to do it. So if we ruin the EPA, who will tell polluters that they cannot dump whatever they want into the river or release any and all chemicals into our air? If not the EPA, who?…