As a resident of Scarborough and the executive director for Physicians for Social Responsibility Maine Chapter, I’d like to thank state Rep. Amy Volk, R-Scarborough, and Sen. Jim Boyle, D-Gorham, for their recent votes in favor of LD 1181 to protect Maine children’s health.

On the other hand, I’m disappointed that Rep. Heather Sirocki, R-Scarborough, failed to protect Maine children’s health and voted to support the chemical industry.

LD 1181 would have required giant food manufacturers to label products that contain BPA, which would have further protected our children’s health and given parents a right-to-know if BPA is present in their children’s food. Over 150 peer-reviewed scientific studies have found many links between this dangerous chemical and diseases like cancer, behavioral disabilities, heart disease, and even obesity. These risks are even greater in the developing bodies of babies and children.

I am one of thousands of Mainers who support stronger legislation to protect our kids, and PSR Maine’s effort in concert with a strong coalition of other Maine organizations will continue the effort to protect public health and especially the health of vulnerable populations.

Karen A. D’Andrea
Scarborough