Press Release
Title: Michigan Congresswoman Introduces Bill to Address Plastic Pollution in Great Lakes
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — With the Great Lakes facing increasing plastic pollution, Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Michigan) is stepping up efforts to fill critical data gaps surrounding the health impacts of plastics. Currently, an alarming 22 million pounds of trash are removed from the Great Lakes annually, with 85% of this waste being plastic, according to nature conservation educator Jessica Gregory.
Stevens plans to introduce the Plastic Health Research Act this week, aimed at allocating $10 million per year from 2026 to 2030 for research on plastic exposure and its associated health effects. "It’s time to move past alarming headlines and gain access to essential data," Stevens remarked, underscoring the urgency of the issue.
The proposed legislation will not only coordinate and expand research programs but also fund grants for various entities, including public institutions, nonprofits, and academic researchers. These grants will support initiatives called "centers of excellence," dedicated to improving the scientific understanding of how plastic exposure affects public health.
Stevens has engaged with a wide array of stakeholders, including the National Institutes of Health, environmental groups, and chemical manufacturers, to ensure a comprehensive research approach. "We all want the best health outcomes," she affirmed.
However, concerns loom over potential federal budget cuts, particularly targeting agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which could impact the bill’s implementation. Stevens expresses hope that bipartisan support, including backing from Rep. Frank Lucas (R-Oklahoma), will protect the bill’s mission and foster collaboration among governmental and private sectors.
"This legislation is vital for our country," says Stevens. "It’s a critical step towards safeguarding our public health and environment."
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