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Statement Of Ann Vanek
Environmental Protection Agency
Aging Initiative Public Listening Session
Tampa, Florida
April 3, 2003
Florida Wildlife Federation
My name is Ann Vanek. I am a member of the board of directors - and I am the youngest member of the board of directors - of the Florida Wildlife Federation. The Florida Wildlife Federation represents 40,000 Florida men and women. Nearly 50 percent of our membership is comprised of seniors. Needless to say, the Federation is very concerned about the proposed rule to reduce the value of a senior's life which would allow an increase in acceptable pollution levels for all demographic groups including wildlife. As you have heard, the intent of the Clean Air Act was to clean up dirty power plants. Many of these plants are still in operation and continue to pollute and now it seems we are opening another loophole to let them continue. During the last administration, the EPA sued power companies for violating National Source Review and still in Florida alone, pollution from these plants is responsible for 230 premature deaths, 4,700 asthma attacks, and 39,000 lost work days each year. When is enough enough? Under this administration, we have all but gutted the Clean Air Act and have left nothing in its place and Clear Skies has not passed yet. Increased health problems from increased air pollution is both expensive and debilitating. We urge you to strongly oppose any decrease in air quality. That's not good enough. Thank you.