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23 Mar: Buono Measure To Reduce Mercury Contamination Signed Into Law

TRENTON – Automobiles headed to the scrap heap will now have to have all mercury switches removed before being destroyed under legislation sponsored by Senator Barbara Buono and signed into law by Governor Richard Codey today.

“Scrapped cars are estimated to contribute 1,000 pounds of mercury into the environment each year,” said Senator Buono, D-Middlesex. “The overwhelming majority of that mercury seeps into the ground, contaminating local ground water and adding to already high levels of mercury in sea life. Even minimal exposure to mercury poses a danger to people and animals, particularly expectant mothers and small children. With this legislation, we will prevent a significant amount of mercury from entering the environment each year.”

14 Feb: Sweeney/Buono Measure To Reduce Mercury Emissions Receives Final Legislative Approval

TRENTON – A measure sponsored by Senators Stephen M. Sweeney and Barbara Buono that would require the removal of mercury switches from vehicles before they are destroyed received final legislative approval today in the Senate by a vote of 36-0.

“An estimated 1,000 pounds of mercury are disposed of each year,” said Senator Sweeney, D-Gloucester, Cumberland and Salem. “Much of the mercury seeps into the ground, contaminating the State’s water and poisoning sea life. Even minimal exposure to mercury is harmful, especially for expectant mothers and small children. This measure is working to protect the environment for both current and future generations.”

07 Feb: Sweeney/Buono Measure Aims To Reduce Mercury Contamination From Cars

TRENTON – A measure sponsored by Senators Stephen M. Sweeney and Barbara Buono that would require the removal of mercury switches from vehicles before they are scrapped or recycled was unanimously approved today by the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee.

“The mercury from shredded vehicles can leak into local water supplies and cause serious health problems, especially in expectant mothers and their unborn children,” said Senator Sweeney, D-Gloucester, Cumberland and Salem. “This measure is a step in the right direction toward making New Jersey a healthier and safer place for its residents.”