U.S. Rep. Latta Statement on EPA Algal Toxin
Jun 18, 2015 12:00 AM
2015-06-18T00:00:00
OFFICE OF CONGRESSMAN Robert E. Latta
FIFTH DISTRICT OF OHIO
2448 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
(202) 225-6405 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 17, 2015 Contact: Dan Alfaro
Office: (202) 225-6405
U.S. Rep. Latta Statement on EPA Algal Toxin Health Advisory Release
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Robert E. Latta (OH-05) commented on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) publication of drinking water health advisories for the cyanobacterial toxins, microcystins and cylindrospermopsin.
"I commend the U.S. EPA for putting forth guidance that can be used to ensure the citizens of Northwest Ohio are using safe drinking water,” said Rep. Latta. “These are encouraging steps that could further mitigate the risk of experiencing anything resembling what we faced during last summer’s water emergency in Toledo.”
EPA also released a cyanotoxin management document - a companion to the health advisories - including background information, tools to consider, and suggested management strategies. The document includes suggested approach public water systems can consider in risk management efforts.
“I am glad the Agency will continue to work with the states and public water systems on how to best utilize these guidelines, as well as assist in preparing for and responding to cyanotoxin health risks in our public drinking water.”
Latta had previously introduced the Drinking Water Protection Act (H.R. 212) in order to help protect drinking water from harmful cyanotoxins. The bipartisan bill, passed overwhelmingly by the House earlier this year, requires the Environmental Protection Agency to develop and submit a plan to Congress for assessing and managing the risks associated with algal toxins in drinking water.
“Again, these are encouraging steps, but these are first steps. I look forward to working with my colleagues in Senate in passing the Drinking Water Protection Act, legislation that ensures a comprehensive, robust scientific approach is being taken to create proactive measures for protecting our drinking water supply.”
FIFTH DISTRICT OF OHIO
2448 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
(202) 225-6405 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 17, 2015 Contact: Dan Alfaro
Office: (202) 225-6405
U.S. Rep. Latta Statement on EPA Algal Toxin Health Advisory Release
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Robert E. Latta (OH-05) commented on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) publication of drinking water health advisories for the cyanobacterial toxins, microcystins and cylindrospermopsin.
"I commend the U.S. EPA for putting forth guidance that can be used to ensure the citizens of Northwest Ohio are using safe drinking water,” said Rep. Latta. “These are encouraging steps that could further mitigate the risk of experiencing anything resembling what we faced during last summer’s water emergency in Toledo.”
EPA also released a cyanotoxin management document - a companion to the health advisories - including background information, tools to consider, and suggested management strategies. The document includes suggested approach public water systems can consider in risk management efforts.
“I am glad the Agency will continue to work with the states and public water systems on how to best utilize these guidelines, as well as assist in preparing for and responding to cyanotoxin health risks in our public drinking water.”
Latta had previously introduced the Drinking Water Protection Act (H.R. 212) in order to help protect drinking water from harmful cyanotoxins. The bipartisan bill, passed overwhelmingly by the House earlier this year, requires the Environmental Protection Agency to develop and submit a plan to Congress for assessing and managing the risks associated with algal toxins in drinking water.
“Again, these are encouraging steps, but these are first steps. I look forward to working with my colleagues in Senate in passing the Drinking Water Protection Act, legislation that ensures a comprehensive, robust scientific approach is being taken to create proactive measures for protecting our drinking water supply.”