1. United States
2. Ala.
3. Letter

I am writing as a constituent to urge you to vote NO on HB 162 and SB 71. These bills would undermine Alabama’s ability to protect its own citizens, environment, and water quality by stripping the state of authority to set science-based standards for toxic substances.The bills would prevent the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) from creating stronger protections for our drinking water, even when new scientific data shows a need to limit toxic chemicals like PFAS — the “Forever Chemicals” linked to cancer, thyroid disease, and other serious health issues. By tying ADEM’s hands, Alabama would be forced to rely on slower, weaker federal rules instead of adopting safeguards that reflect the unique needs of our communities.HB 162 and SB 71 would also raise costs for Alabama’s families. When state agencies cannot regulate toxins effectively, the burden of meeting federal drinking water standards falls on utilities and taxpayers. That means higher water treatment costs for local governments, small towns, and households already struggling with rising living expenses.Finally, the bills create an impossible barrier for protecting public health by requiring a “direct causal link” to bodily harm before action can be taken — ignoring decades of accepted public health science based on risk prevention. We should not have to wait until people or animals are sick or dying before Alabama is allowed to act.Please stand with Alabamians who value safe drinking water, local control, and responsible governance. Vote NO on HB 162 and SB 71.Thank you for your time and for protecting the people and resources of our state.