Only this time the National Academy of Sciences is saying it.
Check out part of the press release:
Based on a review of recent research, the committee found that deaths related to ozone exposure are more likely among individuals with pre-existing diseases and other factors that could increase their susceptibility. However, premature deaths are not limited to people who are already within a few days of dying.
In addition, the committee examined research based on large population groups to find how changes in ozone air concentration could affect mortality, specifically to determine the existence of a threshold — a concentration of ozone below which exposure poses no risk of death. The committee concluded that if a threshold exists, it is probably at a concentration below the current public health standard. (all emphasis mine)
Now, remember how the U.S. got a weaker clean air standard because our administration took cost into consideration but not health?
The White House has consistently expressed doubt over whether a clear link exists and, you may recall, still hasn’t released the documents from the EPA addressing the health risks of smog exposure.
Yeah, this new report totally contradicts all that.
I’m not sure what kind of evidence it would take for this administration to see this differently. I suspect they just don’t want to and I hate that business comes before health. I feel bitter.
Oh, I’m pretty sure they’re not seeing it differently on purpose–after all, if they admit the health risk they’re going to have to spend money to fix it.