Tenn. measure to relax rules on selenium fails in House; likely dead for the session

By Associated Press

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Legislation that would relax standards for release of the mineral selenium into Tennessee waters is likely dead this session after it failed to get a majority vote in the House.

The measure sponsored by Republican Rep. Joe McCord of Maryville was defeated Wednesday by a vote of 49-42, with five members abstaining.

Opponents of the measure say it’s being pushed by the coal industry and that it would hurt aquatic life. But supporters say most recent data shows small amounts of selenium in water is not harmful.

Selenium is toxic to humans in high amounts.

The measure passed the Senate 26-6 in April.

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Read SB1331 and HB1204 at: http://www.capitol.tn.gov

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