WASHINGTON, D.C. — A U.S. Congressman is calling for action in response to the algae emergency.
U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) took to the floor to call for a federal emergency declaration for Florida.
“There is algae in our water that is 15 times as toxic as what the World Health Organization considers hazardous for human contact,” Congressman Mast said. “This is a crisis and the federal government should declare a state of emergency for Florida right now. Stop the poisoning of our community, protect the hundreds of thousands of people on the Treasure Coast and send the water south!”
The call for action comes after Governor Rick Scott declared a state of emergency for multiple counties on Monday. The City of Stuart declared a local state of emergency on Tuesday.
Algae blooms threaten human health and safety and also impact the local ecology, economy, and environment.
Track algae testing in Florida through an interactive map. Call (855) 305-3903 to report an algal bloom, or go online.