BOSTON – Senator John Kerry today urged the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to answer to allegations by the Associated Press on Tuesday that FEMA has known about underground fuel tanks in the Lawrence, Springfield and Boston areas that could potentially leak, but has yet to complete a full inventory of these tanks, and is not equipped to respond to leaks or other public heath risks.

“Leaks could be disastrous. If fuel leaks into drinking water, people are at a higher risk for cancer, kidney damage and nervous system disorders. FEMA must launch an immediate response if there is even a slight chance one of these tanks could be leaking,” said John Kerry. “I strongly urge FEMA to immediately investigate tanks here in Massachusetts and others throughout the country, and update me on all findings and plans for response.”


The text of the letter is as follows: 

August 13, 2008

R. David Paulison
Administrator
Federal Emergency Management Agency
500 C Street SW
Washington, D.C. 20472

Dear Administrator Paulison,

I am writing to express my serious concern regarding the Federal Emergency Management Association’s (FEMA) management of thousands of underground tanks around the country, which may leak hazardous substances into local water supplies.

FEMA is the federal agency charged with inspecting and ensuring the safety of tanks under federal, state or private ownership. However, recent press reports have indicated that FEMA has not completed a full inventory of these tanks, and is not equipped to respond to leaks or other public heath risks.

I understand that FEMA is currently investigating tanks in Lawrence, Springfield and Boston, Massachusetts. I would appreciate receiving an update on the location and status of these and other underground tanks in Massachusetts. I also request a briefing on the Agency’s progress in completing a national inventory of all underground tanks and developing a response plan for hazardous, leaking tanks.

Thank you in advance for your attention to this urgent matter.

Sincerely,

John F. Kerry
United States Senate

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