80R10734 LYA-D

By: Farrar H.R. No. 1402

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, Worldwide exposure to chemical pesticides brings about greater harm than most people realize; and

WHEREAS, More than three billion kilograms of pesticides are spread on the earth annually, exposing both human and wildlife populations to chemicals, with potentially serious repercussions for life everywhere; and

WHEREAS, Our children are uniquely vulnerable to chemical pesticides because of their developing physiology and because they frequently put their hands into their mouths; and

WHEREAS, Chemical pesticides applied outdoors are washed into our waterways and our drinking water sources; several types of cancer, neurological diseases, endocrine disorders, and birth defects have all been associated with exposure to common pesticides; and

WHEREAS, Pregnant women, children, people with asthma, cancer patients, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems, as well as migratory birds, are all highly vulnerable to toxic effects of chemical pesticides; and

WHEREAS, More than 40 years ago, the well-known writer, scientist, and ecologist Rachel Carson alerted America and the world to the potential hazards of pesticides in her landmark book, Silent Spring; despite the warning, the quantity of pesticides used in our country has continued to grow over the years and poses a potential threat to all life forms; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 80th Texas Legislature hereby recognize May 27, 2007, as Rachel Carson Day in honor of the prophetic work of this notable American and encourage the citizens of Texas to focus their attention on the potentially serious hazards associated with chemical pesticides; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That Texans be further encouraged to observe May 27, the birth date of Rachel Carson, by refraining from using chemical pesticides on this day and by seeking alternative methods of pest management.