Lung Association to Release New Poll on Attitudes toward Stricter Smog Standards

(September 8, 2015)—

WHAT: On Wednesday, September 9, 2015, the American Lung Association will release the findings of a new national poll of American voters’ attitudes toward stricter limits on ozone pollution, also known as smog. The poll findings are announced as the White House undertakes its final review of the rule put forth by the Environmental Protection Agency, which is expected to be announced by October 1, 2015.

The telebriefing will review the findings of the new survey, featuring speakers from Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research, as well as from the American Lung Association, who will discuss the need for an updated ozone standard based on what the science shows is needed to protect public health.

WHY: The ozone standard defines what is officially considered a “safe” level of ozone air pollution to breathe, based on health and medical science. Air quality standards drive air pollution cleanup plans and inform the public when air pollution levels are dangerous so they can take steps to limit their exposure. This is especially important for vulnerable populations, such as children, seniors and people with heart disease or lung diseases like asthma, lung cancer or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The Clean Air Act requires that the standard be based solely on what is needed to protect health. The current ozone standard fails to meet that test, leaving millions of people at risk and in the dark about the true impact of smog pollution on their health.

WHEN:  Wednesday, September 9, 2015, 11:00 AM ET

WHO:

• Paul Billings, Senior Vice President, American Lung Association
• Missy Egelsky, Vice President, Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research

HOW: For call-in information for the telebriefing, please contact Michelle Blundell (Email: mblundell@mrss.com, Phone: 202-478-6176).

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About the American Lung Association The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease, through research, education and advocacy. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to improve the air we breathe; to reduce the burden of lung disease on individuals and their families; and to eliminate tobacco use and tobacco-related diseases.  For more information about the American Lung Association, a holder of the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Guide Seal, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.