Southern California representatives urged President Biden to declare a federal emergency to address dangerous pollution from the Tijuana River, which is impacting public health in the region.
Sharon Udasin reports for The Hill.
In short:
- Lawmakers cited alarming new data on toxic gas from the Tijuana River affecting South San Diego residents.
- Communities like Imperial Beach have faced years of contaminated water and air pollution from untreated wastewater from Mexico.
- Representatives called for immediate distribution of air purifiers and KN-95 masks, likening the crisis to a natural disaster.
Key quote:
“Recent data has made it clear that these fumes are causing an immediate and serious threat to the health and safety of residents of South San Diego.”
— Southern California congressional representatives.
Why this matters:
Airborne toxins and water contamination from the Tijuana River pose ongoing public health risks. The crisis highlights the need for cross-border environmental cooperation and immediate federal support to protect affected communities.
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