The Senate bill would transfer the 4.3 cents per gallon transportation fuels tax enacted in 1993 for purposes of deficit reduction to the Highway Trust Fund, where it could only be used for transportation funding. Public Citizen, along with other environmentalists, fiscal conservatives and social welfare advocates, opposes the transfer because it would increase the deficit by boosting already-high highway spending. However, we support one part of the provision, which would set aside one half-cent per gallon for Amtrak, which needs a stable source of funding. Unlike the other 3.8 cents, the revenues dedicated to Amtrak would be offset by other measures, and therefore would not increase the deficit. It is commonly found in consumer items such as thermometers, florescent light bulbs, barometers and medical equipment such as blood pressure measurement instruments.
Metallic mercury is a hazardous material that can vaporize at room temperature.
There is a continuing pattern of metallic mercury exposure in children and teenagers. Exposures can occur from eating, drinking or breathing metallic mercury contaminated food, water and air. At high levels metallic mercury can effect the nervous system and developing fetuses as well as damage other body organs. A number of incidents involving school children mishandling mercury have been reported over the last few years. Parents, school teachers and administrators should take steps to ensure that children are aware of its dangers.