PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • December 30, 2023
A shooting sports foundation lawyer (“Ban on lead ammo unnecessary,” Dec. 26) tells us not to worry about toxic lead bullets in our environment. Speaking in support of lead bullets, the lawyer suggests using lead ammunition is a healthy way to manage wildlife populations and poses no ill health effects on humans, which is reminiscent of what the tobacco lobby said about cigarettes. Lead has been proven again and again to show its deadly and debilitating health effects on humans – including slowing brain development in children – and wildlife. It’s why lead is removed from paint and children’s toys. To say otherwise would be deceitful to families who eat deer or elk, and a vast array of wildlife that deserves our best protection. ~ Julie Marshall, Center for a Humane Economy, Washington, D.C.