WILLIAMS ISSUES A CALL TO ACTION

 To the Editor:

 What is wrong with Pennsylvania having higher standards than the federal government when it comes to protecting the health of Pennsylvanians and our environment?

 In almost any environmental or health discussion, most people would likely say Pennsylvania should adopt standards and regulations that protect Pennsylvanians and safeguard our valuable natural resources. And I am pleased to report that based on the calls, e-mails and letters that were received in my offices, most people are supporting this course of action when it comes to the ongoing discussion over mercury standards.

 Consider the facts: Pennsylvania is second in the nation in mercury emissions. We know that mercury causes serious health problems.

 If you believe that Pennsylvania should move forward with a plan to reduce mercury pollution by 90 percent by 2015; if you believe that power plants should not be allowed to trade emissions credits and instead should seek real solutions to reducing mercury emissions, I urge you to take the time to submit your comments to the Environmental Quality Board by the Aug. 26^th deadline. Comments can be submitted online at www.dep.state.pa.us/regcomments/ or by mail to: Environmental Quality Board, P.O. Box 8477 Harrisburg, PA 17105.

 The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and its mercury workgroup have developed a plan that will support a solid environmental policy when it comes to mercury. The EQB needs to hear from you, however, if the plan is going to move forward. Write as if your life and the life of your family depended upon it, because when we are talking about mercury pollution, it does.

Sincerely,
Connie Williams
State Senator
17^th District