A Loudoun County School Board committee endorsed a policy to ban telecommunication towers on school properties due to potential health risks from wireless radiation.
Alexis Gustin reports for Loudoun Now.
In short:
- The Loudoun County School Board committee voted unanimously to endorse a policy prohibiting cell tower construction on school properties. This policy requires full board approval to become effective.
- Concerns over long-term health risks associated with RF radiation exposure prompted the proposal, particularly after studies like the 2020 New Hampshire report recommended minimizing wireless exposure in schools.
- Community feedback has largely opposed cell tower installations on school campuses, citing potential health risks. A petition against these towers has gained over 800 signatures from local residents and students.
Key quote:
“With all of this in mind, we respectfully request that no cell towers be built on LCPS schools until the FCC has responded to the federal court and you as the board have the evidence you need to make the right decision for our students.”
— Maryam Esfarjani, parent and engineer
Why this matters:
The debate over cell towers on school properties highlights the tension between technological advancement and public health concerns. As wireless technology becomes ubiquitous, understanding its long-term effects on children's health remains important.
