Issue Position: Energy & Environment - Clean Water

Issue Position

Clean Water

The earth's water is one of our most precious resources. Nothing truly matters unless we have clean air to breathe and clean water to drink. But, we must take action to ensure that there is an adequate supply of water for years and generations to come. Currently, approximately 40 percent of the nation's waters still do not meet basic safety standards. Many beaches are too polluted for swimming and many fish are so contaminated that they threaten human health.

The problem of mercury in our water is so severe that fish advisories exist for all fish in every lake and stream in Wisconsin. The amount of mercury contained in just one household thermostat is enough to poison a 60-acre lakefront for one year.

For humans, exposure to mercury can damage the function of the central nervous system and impair reproduction. High prenatal exposure can lead to cerebral palsy and mental retardation. In response, I am a lead sponsor of a bill that would help prevent mercury found in household items from getting into our lakes and streams.

I also am concerned about the presence of pharmaceuticals in our nation's waters. A recent Associated Press study found that pharmaceuticals have been detected in the drinking water supplies of at least 41 million Americans. To examine this issue further, I am proud to cosponsor legislation calling on the EPA to conduct a study examining the presence of pharmaceuticals and personal care products in our nation's drinking water supplies.

Additionally, I strongly oppose efforts to undermine the Clean Water Act and deny protection and cleanup for many waterways throughout the United States. Rather, we must seek out greater protections for our streams, lakes, wetlands, and other water resources.

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