Two new laws protect Oregon's kids
Governor Kulongoski has two new laws to sign that will protect children’s health, thanks to support from our Healthy Kids Campaign!
Good news for kids! Governor Kulongoski will soon have two new laws to sign that will protect children’s health, thanks to support from our action network. One will set a deadline for cleaning up old, dirty school buses; another will bring 21st century pest management techniques into all Oregon K-12 schools and community colleges.
Our members let lawmakers know that cutting toxic pollution from school buses is a top priority. Lawmakers listened: the bill setting deadlines to replace or filter school buses passed with strong support. Hundreds of Oregon school buses already fitted with filters show how dramatic cleanup can be. Soon, kids statewide will breathe easier with up to 90% less pollution from school bus tailpipes.
Schools will also adopt Integrated Pest Management policies, thanks to a new law that we championed. These policies set standards for preventing pests and for treating pests with safe, effective methods. That means schools will save money – and reduce exposure to pesticides.
We’re proud to be part of the coalition of parents, health advocates and others who helped shepherd theses bills into law. If you took action, you should be proud, too: Hearing directly from voters can make a huge difference to lawmakers.
We have more ideas for greener schools, from cleaning supplies to building standards. With the help of our supporters, we’ll keep sounding the drumbeat for stronger policy in legislature and beyond. Join our Healthy Kids Campaign, and we’ll keep you posted on things you can do in your own home to reduce toxic exposure, and opportunities to make change in your community.
