U.S. Congress and State Offices

Clean Water Action endorsed 155 candidates for federal and state offices in 2008, with 80 percent of them winning their elections. Below are the winning candidates plus a few still too close to call as of November 6.

Clean Water Action provides endorsements each election year after carefully reviewing candidates' responses to questionnaires, reviews by a local committee, and in the case of officeholders a close examination of voting records and performance. Find out more about our legislative scorecard.

Is my water contaminated by PFCs?

Eight communities had their drinking water contaminated by PFCs. If you live in Lake Elmo, Oakdale, Woodbury, Cottage Grove, St. Paul Park, South St. Paul, Invergrove Heights or Newport, your water may be contaminated. See PFC Contaminated sites in Minnesota for a list of affected communities and the water impacted.

Will these chemicals harm my health?

There have been many toxicological studies on the health effects of certain PFCs. Two types of PFCs, PFOA and PFOS, can cause birth defects, weakened immune system and hormone disruption. Less is known about another PFC, PFBA. Visit Human Health Effects of PFCs  for more information.

Clean Water Action appreciates the leadership of the Governor and key decision-makers within the legislature who worked together to pass a first start at renewable energy and efficiency requirements for the state. However, this brand-new legislation did not go nearly far enough and we will work to make sure that Michigan does everything it can to become a leader in clean, renewable energy.

Clean Water Action has endorsed a candidate in both the Presidential race and in Congressional races around the country.  
Update (November 7, 2008: Find out which of our endorsed candidates on the state and federal levels won their elections.)

You've heard about the importance of using safer alternatives to toxic chemicals. But do you know what alternative household products are safer for your home and family? Would you, your friends, co-workers and neighbors like to learn?

1,200 different toys were tested through the Healthy Toys project for lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, and chlorine/PVC. The results of the testing revealed some toys with with extremely high levels of these toxic chemicals, while others showed very litte or no levels of toxic chemicals, proving that it is possible to make children's toys without using toxics. Clean Water Action is working very hard with it's partners to make sure that all toys are toxic free.

What is green chemistry?

Green chemistry is the design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the production and use of hazardous substances and reduce energy consumption.

What are the benefits of green chemistry?

Michigan Must Stop More Dangerous Coal Plant Emissions

Clean Water Action is leading a petition drive that calls on Gov. Jennifer Granholm to help fight global warming by making carbon dioxide (CO2) a factor in whether the state approves permits for the eight dirty coal plants currently being planned in Michigan.