Perchlorate and Children's Health: The Case for Strong Cleanup Standard for Rocket Fuel in Drinking Water

Abstract:

Perchlorate, the primary ingredient in solid rocket fuel, contaminates much of California's food and water supply. In an attempt to limit liability for causing the pollution, perchlorate manufacturers and users have attempted to focus the health debate around the needs of healthy adults. But the real threat of perchlorate is to the health and development of young children, as explained in Perchlorate and Children's Health. Exposure to small amounts of perchlorat--whether in the womb or during the sensitive first few years of life-- has the potential to set children back in their mental development.