EAST PALESTINE, Ohio (NewsNation) — Senators Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, and J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, are calling on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to track and fund the long-term effects of the East Palestine train derailment and set up a voluntary disease registry for those exposed to toxic chemicals.
“We write to you today to urge the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to utilize its full authorities to continue to support the local community and monitor and ensure affordable treatment for the potential long-term health impacts of the train derailment, and to establish a voluntary disease registry for the residents of East Palestine,” wrote the senators.
The senators’ request comes just days before President Joe Biden is expected to visit the derailment location Friday.
During the visit, Biden will “discuss how the Administration is continuing to work with state and local officials to hold Norfolk Southern accountable and support the community as it moves forward.”
He is expected to meet with residents impacted by the Feb. 3, 2023, crash and subsequent chemical burn. It’s in an effort to demonstrate continued commitment to holding Norfolk Southern Railway responsible for the crash and its effects.
Some 1,500 residents were told to evacuate following the crash. Fearing an explosion, officials decided to vent and burn five tank cars, releasing 116,000 gallons of the carcinogen vinyl chloride into the air. Later, a toxic plume of smoke smothered the region.
Residents of East Palestine complained of rashes and sickness. They’ve also criticized the government for downplaying their concerns that their community is no longer safe to live in.
“The residents of East Palestine deserve to know how this disaster has impacted their long-term health,” the letter read.
NewsNation affiliate WKBN contributed to this report.
