The front-page headline (Herald, June 30) read “High court sets back mercury rules.”

These rules were designed to protect you! The court arguments are almost always about money. Unfortunately, almost everyone misses the real costs – damage to the mental and physical health of humans.

It’s all in how arguments are framed. Health data is often left out. Mercury is one of the most toxic elements on Earth. The EPA has indicated that, of all the pollutants mentioned in the Clean Air Act, mercury has the greatest potential to impact human health. Environmental mercury contamination has resulted in more than 20 percent of women of childbearing age in the U.S. having mercury levels in their body that pose a risk of brain damage to a developing fetus. Mercury destroys neuron connections in the brain. Damage occurring during fetal and childhood development has been reported to contribute to the epidemics of mental disorders in children seen in the United States today, including autism (more than one in 166 children under age 7 in the U.S. today), ADD, ADHD, and aggressive and violent behavior (more than one in every five children today).

Mercury is also reported to be a major contributor to Alzheimer’s disease. Reports indicate the numbers of people with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia are growing rapidly, already more than 35 million. Mercury also damages kidneys, the liver, heart, cardiovascular system and the spinal cord. And, the argument is about dollar costs to industry!

Data shows the majority of mercury pollution originates from coal burned in power plants to make electricity. EPA rules reducing mercury pollution from these power plants were affected by the recent Supreme Court decision.

It’s really a pity the American public can’t be informed of this critical information and it isn’t used in arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court. Unfortunately, it’s always about money instead. Pollution vs. protection – counting the cost. Somehow, disrupted lives of millions of people just don’t seem to count when the almighty dollar and wealthy companies’ money is involved. What could be the costs to you and your family?

Bob Thompson

Bayfield