Senator J.D. Vance | Official U.S. Senate headshot
Senator J.D. Vance | Official U.S. Senate headshot
U.S. Senators J.D. Vance and Sherrod Brown have urged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to evaluate whether conditions in East Palestine, caused by a Norfolk Southern derailment, warrant being declared a public health emergency under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA). Such a declaration would enable the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to offer Medicare coverage to affected Ohio residents for necessary long-term medical care.
In their communication, Senators Vance and Brown stated, "The long-term environmental and public health impact of this exposure on residents remains unknown and may not become apparent for years to come." They emphasized that "No affected resident of East Palestine or its surrounding communities should have to worry about affording necessary health care, now or in the future."
The senators' request highlights concerns over the potential lasting effects of chemical exposure following the hazardous incident. This call to action aims to ensure that those impacted can access essential healthcare services without financial burden.
Alerts Sign-up