Political Quotes

“Mr. President, for some time, including times on this floor, I have said that the choice between a clean environment and a strong economy is a false one. Some people say you can't have a clean environment and a strong economy at the same time. I just don't think that is correct. TSCA is an acronym for Toxic Substances Control Act. The TSCA reform legislation that we approved in this body last night is proof of the fact that we can have a cleaner, safer, and healthier environment and also have a strong economy. They go together, and maybe, when I finish my remarks, folks will understand why that might be true. Every day in this country manufacturers use a variety of chemicals. I am told there are tens of thousands of chemicals on this planet. It is in the air, in the ground, in the water, and in our bodies. Manufacturers use these chemicals to make everything from carpets--like the carpet we are standing on--to cosmetics, water bottles, and dish washing soap. Former President Gerald Ford signed the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 and said it was landmark legislation. He said that this is huge legislation in terms of protecting the environment and public health. He said it was intended to give the EPA the authority to monitor, test, and regulate the chemicals that pose a risk to human health or the environment. That was the deal.…”