News & Events
MNA calls on senators to protect public health, EPA
03.31.2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Contact: Ann Sincox
517.256.2312
ann.sincox@minurses.org
LANSING– The Michigan Nurses Association today called on U.S. Sens. Debbie Stabenow and Carl Levin to oppose efforts in the U.S. Senate to weaken the Environmental Protection Agency and prevent or delay it from protecting public health. The EPA’s authority to fight pollution helps prevent more than 230,000 deaths every year.
“For more than 40 years, the EPA has saved lives and protected the public health,” said Joyce Stein, chair of the Michigan Nurses Association’s Congress on Public Policy. “Taking away the EPA’s authority will put people’s health at risk and put lives at risk. Now more than ever, Michigan citizens need Senators Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow to stand up for our families and stand up for the EPA.”
A report released by the EPA found that cutting pollution through the Clean Air Act will save $2 trillion by 2020 and prevent at least 230,000 deaths annually. The report can be read at www.epa.gov/oar/sect812/prospective2.html.
“Any delay or attempt to limit the EPA’s ability to do its job of protecting the public health is a step in the wrong direction,” Stein said. “Our lawmakers need to hear loud and clear from Michigan residents that the EPA must be allowed to do its job. The Michigan Nurses Association is saying in no uncertain terms: Do not weaken the EPA.
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The Michigan Nurses Association is the largest, most effective union for RNs in Michigan. As the voice of all registered nurses in Michigan, MNA advocates for nurses and their patients at the State Capitol, in the community, and at the bargaining table. MNA is a constituent member of National Nurses United and an affiliate of the AFL-CIO.
