Representatives of the Kentucky Environmental Federation say the state's leaders should consider the health impacts associated with coal when they "craft the state's energy policy," John Cheves of the Lexington Herald-Leader reports. The organization released a 44-page health-impact assessment on coal yesterday, citing "published, peer-reviewed scientific studies ... that document health risks" associated with pollution from mountaintop-removal coal mining, mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants and toxic heavy metals found in coal-slurry ponds.
KEF Executive Director Elizabeth Crowe said requiring health impact statements before passing legislation about coal would be no different than requiring an environmental impact statement. "Unfortunately, many of Kentucky's elected officials seem concerned about protecting the image and profits of the coal industry with little if any time donated to consideration about the impact on public health," she said. The group endorses House Bill 167, which would encourage energy efficiency and use of renewable energy by utilities. The bill's sponsor, Rep. Mary Lou Marzian, D-Louisvill said she doesn't expect it to get a vote, and that House leaders are unlikely to support "a measure critical of coal." (Read more)
KEF Executive Director Elizabeth Crowe said requiring health impact statements before passing legislation about coal would be no different than requiring an environmental impact statement. "Unfortunately, many of Kentucky's elected officials seem concerned about protecting the image and profits of the coal industry with little if any time donated to consideration about the impact on public health," she said. The group endorses House Bill 167, which would encourage energy efficiency and use of renewable energy by utilities. The bill's sponsor, Rep. Mary Lou Marzian, D-Louisvill said she doesn't expect it to get a vote, and that House leaders are unlikely to support "a measure critical of coal." (Read more)
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