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An Act Relative to Mercury Management –
H.4670
Lynn Wolbarst,
LWVM Natural Resources Specialist
Urge your senator to support the Mercury
Products Bill, H.4670, as passed by the House, and to oppose any amendments that
would weaken the bill.
Background
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On February 2, 2006 the Massachusetts
House of Representatives voted unanimously to pass the Mercury Products Bill.
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A vote in the Senate should come very
soon.
The Legislation
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restricts the sale of mercury containing
products, such as thermostats and electrical switches, and blood pressure
cuffs
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bans the disposal of mercury-containing
products in trash
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requires manufacturers to set up
collection programs to make sure these products are recycled or disposed of
properly.
Lead Sponsors
Senator Susan Tucker and Representative Douglas Petersen
Talking Points
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Mercury is a dangerous neurotoxin.
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Mercury containing products that are
thrown away and incinerated disperse the mercury into the air and water.
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Once in the water, mercury accumulates in
fish as well as in river and ocean sediment.
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Fish such as swordfish, albacore tuna, and
king mackerel have become so contaminated with mercury that the EPA has
issued safety advisories on their consumption especially by pregnant women
and young children.
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