House Passes Comprehensive Mercury Management Bill

BOSTON- State Representatives Cory Atkins and James Eldridge today announced that the House of Representatives unanimously approved legislation to regulate the sale and disposal of products containing mercury, a well-known environmental contaminant and public health threat.

“Mercury is a highly poisonous metal that has polluted too many of the Commonwealth’s waterways and poses a serious health risk to pregnant women and young children,” said Eldridge.  “By phasing out its use in products such as thermometers and light bulbs and requiring manufacturers to set up collection and recycling programs, this bill establishes necessary safeguards to protect our citizens and our environment.”

The legislation focuses on the production, disposal, collection and labeling of products that contain mercury.  If mercury-added products are sent to landfills and incinerators, the substance is emitted into the air and ends up in lakes, streams, rivers and reservoirs.  Most human exposure to mercury comes from eating fish and can lead to brain damage and learning disabilities.

“In 1998, Massachusetts entered into an agreement with other New England states to cut mercury emissions in half by 2003,” said Eldridge.  “I am happy to report that we met that goal and, should this bill become law, I am confident that we can continue to make significant progress in the area of environmental protection.”

The bill, which now moves to the Senate for consideration, also mandates the Department of Environmental Protection to create an education program to inform individuals and businesses about mercury-added products and offer instruction on their safe disposal.  Four other New England states – Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut and Maine – have enacted similar laws restricting the use and disposal of mercury.