On Jan. 11, the U.S. House of Representatives voted on a significant bill: the Regulatory Accountability Act. The health of all Mainers is threatened by the misleadingly named proposal, a dangerous bill parading as a “reform” measure that passed the House.

While I am deeply disappointed that the House approved this sneak attack bill, I am so grateful that U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree voted against it, putting public health ahead of industry profits.

The bill would not secure “regulatory accountability”; instead, it would weaken laws that safeguard kids from air pollution and tobacco. Federal protections are critical for protecting kids, preventing disease and saving lives.

According to the American Lung Association’s State of the Air report, in Maine there are over 21,000 children with asthma who rely on federal safeguards under the Clean Air Act to prevent dangerous levels of air pollution that can trigger asthma attacks. At a time when more than half of Americans live in counties with unhealthy levels of air pollution, we should be doing more to clean up our air, not less.

Strong federal safeguards save lives. I sincerely hope that we can count on our senators to oppose this obstructive and dangerous legislation that values industry more than health. Sens. Susan Collins and Angus King, please prioritize Mainers’ health and oppose the backroom deal bill known as the Regulatory Reform Act.

Marguerite Pennoyer, M.D.

Scarborough

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