Sherrie Pace | Support HB1544

People assume a basic level of health protection when entering a public facility. There is a reasonable expectation that building managers and owners are actively safeguarding both patrons and employees from avoidable environmental hazards. This expectation is supported by public health guidance from the CDC and EPA regarding indoor environmental quality. Indoor air pollution is not benign. The EPA has repeatedly identified indoor air contaminants as a major public health risk, especially in enclosed workplaces where employees are exposed for extended periods, day after day. These exposures disproportionately affect workers who have no ability to avoid them. An epidemiological study from the University of Washington has estimated that over 40 million Americans experience adverse health effects from airborne chemical exposures commonly considered “safe,” despite limited long-term testing. These exposures have been associated with damage to the respiratory system, liver, kidneys, neurological function, reproductive health, and immune response. As the co-founder of the Fragrance Free Coalition I trust this bill has the potential to set a precedent that all states can follow to do better in protecting the health and wellness of not just patrons but their own employees. It sets the standard for starting an Indoor Air Quality movement that finally takes into consideration the adverse effects of using consumer products with little to no regulation. I strongly urge all members to take this occupational health matter seriously and to vote to pass such extremely important legislation.