Hatcher: We need to put pressure on those polluting our waters

INDIANAPOLIS - State Rep. Ragen Hatcher (D-Gary) today released the following statement about ArcellorMittal’s toxic spill:

“It’s dangerous when we find toxic chemicals in our water systems, but it’s even more dangerous when corporations manipulate testing results and data. We need to put pressure on those who are polluting our waters to be held accountable for their actions.

“ArcellorMittal’s toxic spill is not the first time Lake Michigan has been affected by heavy industrial activity. It has experienced long-term abuse and this legislation is long overdue.

“This session, I am introducing a bill that would require independent testing and reporting of our water quality in addition to state permit testing. The independent testing would analyze the water at least four times per year for pollutants such as lead, chromium, mercury and cadmium, as well as pollutants from human activity.

“We need to make it a priority to preserve the beauty and safety of Lake Michigan. Lake Michigan and the surrounding area are important tourism destinations for Northwest Indiana, providing a beach and hopefully, with this new bill, clean water for visitors and residents to enjoy for years to come.”