MomsAgainstMold.org

ACHEMMIC is a newly formed team of experts with the express purpose of educating lawmakers, physicians, and the general public about the hazards of toxic mold and other contaminants. The Action Committee on the Health Effects of Mold, Microbes and Indoor Contaminants was formed after the February 3rd meeting of the Federal Interagency Committee on Indoor Air Quality (CIAQ).

ACHEMMIC has submitted a letter to the CIAQ and other federal agencies requesting that action be taken on behalf of the countless Americans who suffer ill effects from toxic mold and other contaminants. In addition, this letter has been faxed to Capitol Hill for distribution to all 100 Senators. To view the cover letter, click here.

ACHEMMIC members include: Dr. Jack Thrasher, Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker, Carl Grimes, Dr. Michael Gray, Dr. Jeanette Hope, Sharon Kramer, Cheryl Wisecup (see February 11 entry), and others.

ACHEMMIC's letter makes reference to the September 2008 report from the General Accounting Office urging the EPA and CIAQ to reevaluate its position on indoor mold and take appropriate action to protect the public.

“The GAO report was issued sixteen months ago, but we have seen no progress. In the meantime, people are suffering and dying from exposure to indoor contaminants in their homes, apartments, schools and businesses.”

ACHEMMIC's letter also cites the World Health Organization’s comprehensive report titled “Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality – Dampness and Mould,” issued in June of 2009, which declares that “healthy indoor air is recognized as a basic right.”

The letter goes on to list studies on the dangers of indoor mold and contaminants from the EPA, Berkeley National Laboratory, Mayo Clinic, a 2007 study in Finland, and much more.

“In summary, millions of Americans have been harmed by molds, microbes and other contaminants inside their homes, apartments, schools and businesses. Many of these individuals and families have lost everything---their health, homes, personal belongings, jobs, financial security, their sense of safety, and their hope for the future. To say it another way, they have lost a lifetime of hard work and achievements. They are counting on you to right this wrong, to stop this devastation, and to ensure that the truth is told.”

ACHEMMIC's letter then offers 20 action steps, including this one:

“Prepare and disseminate a handbook for physicians and hospitals throughout the country to inform them about the health effects of indoor contaminants and the appropriate testing and treatment protocol. This handbook needs to be published in a format that can be frequently updated. We recognize that this assignment may be the responsibility of the CDC, but it is an important component of this process so we are including it in this list of action items.”

ACHEMMIC's letter is filled with valuable information. It is one of the best compilations of expertise I've seen. To view the letter in its entirety, click here.

For information on contacting your elected officials regarding this letter, see the following sites:

· U.S. Senate website

· U.S. House of Representatives website

· State Legislature--find the website for your state legislature and identify your legislators using your address or zip code.

· Governor for each state--find the website for your state government and locate the contact information for your Governor.

To learn more about ACHEMMIC, visit their website.