North Columbus News

Washington, D.C. - In response to concerns raised by residents of East Palestine, Ohio, Senator JD Vance (R-OH) has led a bipartisan and bicameral effort to demand indoor air testing and decontamination services for the community. Joined by Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Representatives Warren Davidson (R-OH-08), Max Miller (R-OH-7), Shontel Brown (D-OH-11), Emilia Sykes (D-OH-13), and Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Senator Vance has addressed a letter to Michael Regan, Administrator of the U.S. EPA, urging immediate action.

The letter highlights the concerns raised by residents and experts regarding potential indoor contaminants in East Palestine. To address these concerns, the senators and representatives have requested the EPA to ensure the availability of limited testing for compounds such as acrylate compounds and vinyl-chloride in residences upon request, following any necessary cleanup.

"We cannot overstate the importance of transparent and proactive communication," the letter states. "Residents' worry about these compounds stems from the derailment. By allowing Norfolk Southern to skirt its responsibility to the community and refuse to offer this sort of testing following cleanup, the EPA risks eroding the trust of many in our community."

The lawmakers emphasize the need for follow-up cleaning if elevated levels of these compounds are identified during testing. They urge the EPA to require Norfolk Southern to conduct another round of cleaning to provide peace of mind to the residents.

The concerns raised by the residents of East Palestine have prompted Senator Vance and his colleagues to take action in order to prioritize the health and well-being of the community. The bipartisan and bicameral effort demonstrates their commitment to ensuring that appropriate testing and cleaning services are provided to the residents.

Residents of East Palestine have expressed their appreciation for Senator Vance's efforts. One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, "We have been living with this uncertainty for too long. It is reassuring to know that our concerns are being heard and that steps are being taken to address them. We hope that the EPA will respond swiftly and provide the necessary testing and decontamination services."

Senator Vance and his colleagues are hopeful that their letter to the Administrator of the U.S. EPA will result in prompt action to address the concerns of the residents of East Palestine. By advocating for transparent communication and proactive measures, they aim to restore the trust of the community and ensure the health and well-being of its residents.

The full letter can be read here [insert link to the letter].

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.vance.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-vance-colleagues-demand-indoor-air-testing-and-decontamination-for-residents-of-east-palestine