LANSING – In a move to better protect Michigan's families and the Great Lakes, the House passed a package of bills today sponsored by Speaker Pro Tempore Pam Byrnes (D-Lyndon Township) that will phase out the use of mercury in several products sold in Michigan, and improve recycling practices and disposal of the toxic substance. Mercury is a dangerous, bioaccumulative toxin that can seriously impact the health of Michigan residents, wildlife and natural resources.
"We need to do all we can to protect our families and the Great Lakes from hazardous substances like mercury," said Byrnes, a sponsor of the plan. "When products containing mercury are disposed of in landfills and incinerators, those harmful toxins make their way into our water, wildlife and even the food we eat. Today's action will help free our land, air and water from this toxic substance, and help protect our residents from mercury's harmful effects."
The most common causes of mercury pollution often come from batteries and other consumer products that are disposed of in landfills and incinerators, melting steel scraps, burning coal and as a byproduct in the production of certain chemicals. Michigan has taken action in recent years to phase out the use of mercury in products like thermometers and thermostats. This five-part plan takes additional steps to further restrict its use.
The plan will:
- Prohibit the use of mercury in products, such as batteries, watches and novelty items.
- Stop the disposal of products containing mercury in landfills and incinerators.
- Require products containing mercury that are sold in Michigan to include a warning to notify consumers of its contents.
- Require any product containing elemental mercury for medical, dental, research or manufacturing purposes to come with a warning label identifying the dangers associated with handling mercury.
- Phase out the sale of certain mercury measuring devices.
Once mercury is released into the atmosphere, it can collect in bodies of water and then bioaccumulate in fish. There is a broad fish advisory in Michigan for all inland lakes that encourages residents, especially women of child-bearing age and children, to limit their consumption of certain fish. Numerous studies have shown an increased risk for fetuses exposed to mercury through maternal fish consumption.
The plan is part of Byrnes' continuing commitment to protect Michigan families from toxic substances. Earlier this week, House Democrats introduced a package of bills that will require manufacturers of children's toys and products to report what chemicals they use in the production of toys sold in Michigan.
"There is absolutely no reason why manufacturers should use mercury when there are many safe alternatives," Byrnes said. "Consumers need to have the information necessary to identify products containing mercury so they can choose accordingly and ensure their loved ones aren't exposed to toxic chemicals. We must take bold action to protect future generations from the harmful effects of exposure to mercury."