Congresswoman McCollum's Commitment to Restoring Funding for the EPA's State Indoor Radon Grant Program

Each year, an estimated 21,000 Americans die from lung cancer caused by exposure to radon. This invisible, naturally-occurring, radioactive gas concentrates at dangerous levels in homes and persists for years, often without a family's knowledge. Minnesota is a national leader in reducing the risk of radon exposure. Our state's voluntary program includes educational curriculum, control programs, and targeted citizen outreach. This program has saved countless lives and become a model for other states to follow.

Unfortunately, the federal funding Minnesota relies on to match state and local funds to support these efforts is now in jeopardy. The Environmental Protection Agency's proposed 2013 budget eliminates all funding that helps states like Minnesota promote radon awareness, oversee professional testing and reduce the risks of exposure. Without federal support, the Minnesota Department of Health will be forced to severely reduce its radon-control activities and, possibly, eliminate the program entirely.

Allowing Minnesota families to breathe toxic air is not an acceptable option. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I am committed to restoring funding to the EPA's State Indoor Radon Grant program. I am hopeful my colleagues will join me in a bipartisan effort to save this critical program.