Introduction

When we give our children an aspirin, we’re always careful not to give them an “adult dose.” Why? Because we know a child’s body simply can’t handle the same things as ours.

Yet, when most air and water regulations were created, they gave our children “adult doses” of toxins, by setting standards on cancer and acute health risks to that of a 160-pound, male adult. Studies have conclusively demonstrated that children are more susceptible to toxins than adults because they drink more water and breathe more air per pound of body weight. In addition, because their brain, immune, and reproductive systems are still developing, exposure to even low levels of toxins can wreak havoc on a developing child – and more so to a developing fetus.

By employing the precautionary principle – that legislative measures should be taken to protect our children, even if an absolute cause and effect relationship is not established – means we are deciding it is better to be “safe than sorry” when considering the health of our children.

This web site offers the tools necessary for you to introduce and pass legislation that adequately protects the health of children in your state, including a sample bill, talking points, press clips, a fact pack, research, and other background information.

We may have other useful materials on this subject, which are not posted on our web site. Please feel free to contact us at info@serconline.org or call our office in Madison, Wisconsin, at (608) 252-9800.

If you’ve used this site and found it helpful or, if you have suggestions about how it could be made more helpful, please let us know. Feel free to use the sample bill text included here in your state. If you do, please notify us.