We still have concerns that this legislation could lead to hot spots of mercury pollution in the state.

The issues involved in controlling dangerous mercury pollution are complex. False and misleading information can have no place in the debate.

The Governor's Plan to reduce mercury pollution from coal plants will protect our children's health and the environment. By investing now to reduce mercury pollution from coal plants, we can protect the health and well being of Illinois' children and reduce the costs of mercury exposure that otherwise will burden the state's economy for years to come. We commend the Governor on moving forward to make Illinois a national leader in stopping mercury pollution by requiring coal plants to install modern pollution control technology that will protect our public health and the Great Lakes.

Offshore drilling could turn our beaches and coastal waters into an industrial zone. Rather than auction off our valuable coastline to oil and gas companies, Virginia should be leading the way with energy solutions that will sustain our energy needs and our economy far into the future.

States like New Jersey have already made a commitment to reduce mercury pollution by 90 percent. The technology is out there. We just need to move in that direction.

Our lakes and rivers are already contaminated with mercury. We need to reduce emissions, not add to them.