Michigan: Urge your Representative to regulate toxin

Lindane is a toxic pesticide that has been banned for use in more than 50 countries and the state of California, and is no longer used on pets, in agriculture or in the military anywhere in the U.S., according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

But you can still put lindane on children's heads or whole bodies as part of a treatment for head lice or scabies.

Even with proper use, this pesticide can be absorbed through the skin and misuse can result in serious side effects. Lindane has been labeled a "Bioaccumulative Chemical of Concern" in the Great Lakes.

A bill is about to be introduced that would establish commonsense measures in Michigan to require use of lindane only under a doctor's direct supervision. Health professional organizations like Michigan's Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics support the legislation, noting the availability of safer, effective alternatives.

Of course, the opposition has hired high-powered lobbyists in Lansing to fight the legislation. Please help today by sending an e-mail to your state Representative asking them to show early support for this bill by signing on as a co-sponsor.

Please act today. The bill is only open for co-sponsorship until Thursday, Feb. 19.