Jackson Announces Funds For Research And Environmental Cleanup

Congressman Jesse L. Jackson, Jr., a member of the House Appropriations Committee, announced today that the House passed a Defense Appropriations bill that included $4.5 million for environmental cleanup and scientific research in the Second District of Illinois. The bill, which passed the House 308-106, is expected to be approved by the Senate before being signed into law by the president.

"I am proud to be able to provide these funds for the Second District," Jackson said. "The South Side is an area of tremendous need, and these projects will help increase economic opportunities for my constituents."

Congressman Jackson obtained $1 million to clean up a local hazardous waste site. The cleanup will allow Chicago Magnesium, a longtime defense contractor, to remain a significant employer in the Blue Island area.

"Maintaining a clean and healthy environment is the greatest legacy we can leave our children, and is one of my highest priorities. The money I was able to obtain will be used to remove Thorium, a low grade radioactive additive used in the manufacture of military aircraft components, from the site. This cleanup is necessary for Chicago Magnesium to continue providing good jobs on the South Side," Jackson added.

In addition, Congressman Jackson secured $3.5 million for robotics research at Chicago State University.

"The funds will support a program to develop a fuel cell technology for the power needs of mobile robotics systems in the defense arena. The technology could provide safe, cost-effective, and energy efficient power sources for mobile robotics systems," Jackson concluded.