Lead Poisoning - Flint MI - State of Emergency

What a mess!

"Exposure to even low levels of lead can cause damage over time, especially in children. The greatest risk is to brain development, where irreversible damage may occur. Higher levels can damage the kidneys and nervous system in both children and adults. Very high lead levels may cause seizures, unconsciousness and possibly death." -- The Mayo Clinic [link to www.mayoclinic.org]

The president has issued a State of Emergency 1-18-16.

Flint used to receive water from Lake Huron but began drawing water from the Flint River in 2014 in an effort to save money while a new pipeline was built. Residents complained about rashes and odors from the river water, but city and state officials mostly insisted that it was safe to drink. Last year, elevated levels of lead were found in children’s blood. In October, Flint switched back to Detroit’s water system.

Officials remain concerned that damaged pipes could continue to leach lead, which can cause cognitive damage in children and kidney issues in adults. State officials were also investigating whether the contaminated water was connected to a recent outbreak of Legionnaire’s disease that has killed 10 people.

Governor Rick Snyder said he took action as soon as he became aware of the situation, although state representative Dan Kildee said he has been pushing for emergency declaration for months. [link to www.nytimes.com]

Who will stand for them?