Today, Rep. Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement applauding the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) latest proposal setting stricter limits to emissions of smog pollutants in our atmosphere:

“Yesterday the EPA proposed implementing stricter health standards to date for smog. I applaud EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson and President Obama for implementing such measures. Decreasing smog and air pollution in urban areas is essential for the health and well being of our nation, particularly in New York City, one of the most congested cities in the world,” stated Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke.

Smog, also known as ground-level ozone, is linked to a number of serious health problems, ranging from aggravation of asthma to increased risk of premature death in people with heart or lung disease. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has pointed out that children are at the greatest risk from smog emissions due to their underdeveloped lungs. According to the New York City Department of Mental Health and Hygiene, in 2000 children in New York City were almost twice as likely to be hospitalized for asthma as compared to children in the United States as a whole.

“Protecting the environment is vital to the survival, health and well being of all Americans, particularly our children. What we do today has a direct impact on future generations of Americans,” added Rep. Clarke. “That is why I voted to help pass the House version of the 2009 Energy Bill this summer and have remained an outspoken advocate for green technologies.”

“As the proud U.S Representative of the 11th Congressional District of New York, I will continue to fight for tougher standards on smog emissions. I continue to support regulations, legislation, and policy to protect and preserve our nation’s environment,” concluded Rep. Clarke

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