Target: Julie Fahey, Speaker of Oregon House of Representatives
Goal: Prohibit race cars from emitting leaded fuel that is harmful to children’s health.
NASCAR auto racing made a splash when it committed to transitioning from leaded fuel several years ago. Leaded fuel has been a subject of much debate, as its use has been associated with public health risks, particularly in the brain. One study even found a link between racetracks and cognitive deficits in children living within close proximity. While leaded fuel has been largely removed from auto transportation, it’s still permitted in certain sectors like auto racing…despite the known dangers.
The subject of the aforementioned study, Portland International Raceway, could set a positive standard for localized tracks across the country. In response to the research, Oregon’s legislature introduced a bill that would ban leaded fuel usage at many of the state’s racetracks. Specifically, the ban would apply to tracks located in regions with populations exceeding 500,000.
Sign the petition below to demand lawmakers support this proposal and make every effort to strengthen it.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Representative Fahey,
Leaded fuel has been banned in most sectors of American transportation and in most of the world for a reason. This substance is correlated with harmful health risks. A research initiative at Portland International Raceway has reinforced the risk to children in particular. Follow NASCAR’s lead. For the sake of your youngest constituents and their continued safe development, give full support to the bill proposing a ban on leaded fuel at most state racetracks
Moreover, close loopholes in the bill that would allow smaller racetracks to potentially skirt compliance and that would enable a years-long delay in implementation. Even one more day of putting a child’s health in peril is a day too many.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Bo Nash
