In government, there is a responsibility to protect the health of the citizens that live in communities as well as the health of the environment.  By providing information, guidance, education, and laws government at local and state levels can assist with the effort of protecting the health of individuals and the communities they live in.

Why be Concerned?
Mercury is a chemical that is classified as a Persistent Bioaccumulative Toxin (PBT). 

PBTs are chemicals and/or pollutants that:

• Remain in the environment for a long time (persist) without breaking down. 

• Accumulate in the environment and build up in the tissue of humans, fish, and other animals
  (bioaccumulation).

• Are toxic, causing cancer and/or other health problems, to living organisms including humans.