Sarasota Review

U.S. Representatives Greg Steube (R-Fla.) and Janelle Bynum (D-Ore.) have introduced a bipartisan bill that mandates the FDA to study the health effects of microplastic exposure in food and water. This initiative aims to address concerns about the link between microplastics and severe health issues, particularly in U.S. coastal communities.

"For years, the federal government buried its head in the sand while microplastics infected our water and food supply," said Rep. Steube. "Charlotte, Lee, and Sarasota Counties have all been flagged as high-risk areas for microplastic exposure, with alarming rates of chronic illness and disease. Yet the FDA still tells Americans not to worry. This is unacceptable. Americans deserve to know what they’re being exposed to, how it’s affecting their health, and what Washington plans to do about it."

"We can’t take a wait-and-see approach here – it’s time to be proactive," added Rep. Bynum. "We’ve got to get a handle on how microplastics are getting in our food, beverages, and everyday items, and figure out how they’re affecting our health." She emphasized her focus on data collection alongside Senator Merkley, Senator Scott, and Representative Steube.

The legislation has also been introduced in the Senate by Senators Rick Scott (R-Fla) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore). "I’m deeply concerned about how microplastics may be impacting the health of Americans – particularly vulnerable groups like our youth," stated Senator Rick Scott.

Senator Merkley commented on environmental implications: "Most of us have been taught the three Rs: reduce, reuse, and recycle... Microplastics threaten human health and our environment."

The bill instructs the Secretary of Health and Human Services via the FDA Commissioner to investigate microplastic exposure's impact on cancer, chronic illness, endocrine disruption among other health issues. A report with findings is required within one year.

A recent American Heart Association study highlighted higher diabetes rates in counties with high marine microplastic levels such as those in Florida's 17th District.

Rep. Steube has previously co-sponsored similar initiatives focusing on clean water advocacy.