On the recordApril 13, 2016
I stand here as a Member of Congress; but years before that, I was a mother and a grandmother, and I still am. It is from all of these perspectives that I am deeply disturbed by recent tests in Galesburg, Illinois, that show a high contamination of lead. Even more alarming is that 5 percent of our children tested have elevated levels in their small bodies. If this happened to one of my kids, I can tell you I would ask for immediate answers and immediate action; and these families and these children deserve no less. Last Friday, I met with Galesburg city officials, and I urged them to apply for the low-interest Federal loans to replace the lead pipes that go to 4,700 homes in Galesburg. In addition to that, I support legislation that would call for improved reporting, testing, and monitoring of lead levels. As a Congresswoman, as a mom, as a grandma, I say to all responsible here: It is time. It is past time. No more excuses. No more delays. We need a long-term solution to a long-term problem. ____________________
