SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Gov. Gavin Newsom on October 8 vetoed three bills sponsored by the Environmental Working Group – one targeting lead in schools’ drinking water and the other two aiming to ban the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS from cleaning products and artificial turf.
The following is a statement from Susan Little, EWG’s senior advocate for California government affairs:
The governor’s veto of Assembly Bill 249, a proposal to test drinking water at schools for the presence of lead, represents a missed opportunity to prioritize the health and safety of our children, who are among the most vulnerable members of our society.
This unfortunate veto occurred just months after one in four child care centers reported high levels of lead in their drinking water. Centers up and down the state found lead levels that were 50, 100 and even 2,200 times the allowable level. Limited sampling done at schools shows that children could also be drinking lead-contaminated water while trying to learn.
Ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental responsibility of our government, and A.B. 249 would have taken a significant step toward achieving that goal for our youngest citizens.
Lead contamination in drinking water poses a severe risk to the cognitive and physical development of children, and it is imperative that we take proactive measures to protect them.
Gov. Newsom also vetoed two bills that would have protected the public from exposure to PFAS in cleaning products, which are used in homes, schools and public places, as well as turf used at playgrounds and sports fields.
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The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. Through research, advocacy and unique education tools, EWG drives consumer choice and civic action
