Lung Association in Michigan Applauds Clean Power Plan Health Benefits

LANSING MI (08/03/2015)(readMedia)-- Ken Fletcher, Advocacy Specialist for the American Lung Association in Michigan, issued the following statement in response to the Clean Power Plan announced today by President Barack Obama:

"The American Lung Association in Michigan welcomes the Clean Power Plan as a vital tool for protecting Michigan residents from the burden of air pollution, including the carbon pollution from power plants that causes climate change. Nationwide, the Clean Power Plan will prevent up to 90,000 asthma attacks and 3,600 premature deaths each year starting in 2030. That's important for Michigan's more than 214,000 children with asthma and 798,000 older adults, who face greater health risks from air pollution and climate change."

"Today's announcement marks a crucial step forward, but the fight against climate change is far from over. Under the Clean Power Plan, Governor Snyder is charged with developing a plan to reduce our state's power plant carbon pollution. Taking steps to cut carbon pollution will also reduce other dangerous pollutants linked to asthma attacks, heart attacks and premature death, making the Clean Power Plan a win-win protection for our health, as well as a powerful, flexible tool against climate change."

"With clean renewable energy options on the rise, we are confident that Michigan can meet our targets more quickly than the plan requires, ensuring even greater health benefits for Michigan residents. We look forward to working with Governor Snyder to ensure speedy implementation and maximum health benefits. Anything less shortchanges our children and communities."

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About the American Lung Association in Michigan

As the oldest voluntary health organization in the United States, the American Lung Association's mission is to prevent lung disease and promote lung health. As a charter member of the nationwide organization, the American Lung Association in Michigan is committed to carrying out this mission in Michigan. In communities throughout the state, the American Lung Association is working to improve life one breath at a time through education, advocacy and research. From tuberculosis to asthma, from tobacco control to clean indoor and outdoor air, the lung health successes achieved during the American Lung Association's century of service have been gained only through the work of thousands of committed volunteers, dedicated staff and generous supporters. For more information about the American Lung Association or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872) or log on to www.alam.org.