Lead Pb Environmental Contamination and Health Issues

Scientists and health experts have identified the metal, lead, as a serious toxin. Many actions have been taken to remove lead from the environment. For example leaded gasoline was banned in the 1970's.

Read: House Passes Ban on Lead in Toys New York Times July 31, 2008.

Government Considers Banning Lead in Children's Jewelry , Washington Post

Lead in Toy Jewelry - Young children often put objects in their mouths. When those objects, such as toy jewelry, contain lead, a child can suffer from lead poisoning. Toy jewelry has been found in some instances to contain levels of lead that can pose a serious health risk to children. EPA

Read: Lead air pollution limits might be dropped, Associated Press 7/12/2006

Due to potential risk of lead pollution EPA urged to remove lead from the criteria pollutants.

Lead poisoning most often from paint flakes and dust | Low lead levels still dangerous - the Environment Report

Lead Bullets and Hunters' meat

Lead Doesn't Just Damage Children's Brains

Study shows adults exposed to lead are prone to memory loss and learning problems after age 55.

How to track Federal Legislation using THOMAS

Explore the issues regarding lead and take action.

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Action:

Write a letter regarding this issue to one of the individuals that represents you in the U.S. Congress, the head of the EPA, or the President. Tell them how you feel about this issue and what you believe should be done about it. Endeavor to cite specific examples. Point to the elected official's previous voting record on similar issues.

Your challenges include: finding their office address, using the correct salutation including title, as well as, following appropriate business letter writing format. Most legislators have their own web site. Use your online research skills to find it.

Write the letter in word processing. Edit it as needed. (This will be your assignment reponse)

*Many elected officials have an email form/link in their web site. It is reasonable to use this, in lieu of paper and postage, but many format and style expectations remain the same. Copy the text of your letter .. paste it into the email form. Some email forms have a maximum character limit. If that is the case, write the formal letter. Then drop the address heading and date from the email.

Writing to persuade | US Congress Votes Database