As a nurse practitioner, I see firsthand how pollution from the vehicles on our roads harms people. I see patients with asthma exacerbations frequently at the local urgent care where I provide care. Pollution from gas- and diesel-powered vehicles causes asthma attacks in kids and a host of other health harms, and people who live and work near roadways are at particular risk.

Our area’s air is in need of clean-up, as well as those in downstream areas to Maine that can pollute our air. Maine’s summertime particle pollution values can rise due to a “dirty air mass” from other locations moving over the state. Dirty air is caused by particle pollution from the tailpipes of cars, buses and trucks.

That’s why it’s crucial to keep clean vehicle standards on the books. Unfortunately, the House just tried to roll back standards that clean up cars and trucks.

The House voted to improperly use a tool called the Congressional Review Act to effectively overturn three state vehicle pollution programs. This vote was disappointing for anyone who cares about protecting kids’ health from the pollution that comes out of tailpipes. Unfortunately, Rep. Golden voted “yes.”

The good news is that the Senate hasn’t voted yet. I’m calling on Sen. King and Sen. Collins to vote “no” on these unlawful Congressional Review Act resolutions. I hope they vote “no” to protect kids’ health.

Samantha Paradis
Caribou