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ertator `aura Zlca,5io
415 Beretania Street, Room 203
HONOLULU, HAWAII 96813
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June 14,2022
Hawaii County Council
counciltestimony@hawaiicounty.gov
Aloha mai kakou,
I am writing in support of Bill 167 to prohibit non-mineral sunscreen sales and distribution on
Hawaii Island starting December 2022. Numerous scientific studies have shown that non-
mineral sunscreens contribute to coral bleaching and dying reefs, are harmfully present in fish
and the animals and humans who eat fish, and can interfere with normal child development.
This is NOT OK.
While some of the scientific data might be considered inconclusive as to the extent of
human/animal harm and coral reef damage,if we can prevent any harm and damage by requiring
mineral-only suncreens—such as more-effective and widely-used zinc and titanium—then it is a
simple decision to do so. We must do all we can to protect our keiki and `ohana and malama
`aina and kai. As public servants and elected officials,why wouldn't Hawaii County do this
by passing Bill 167?
I do understand and appreciate the concerns raised by dermatologists and other anti-skin
cancer advocates about the potential harm of limiting the number approved sunscreens;
however,I strongly believe mineral-only sunscreens can both protect against skin cancer and
protect environmental, animal and human health. It is NOT an either/or choice. I repeat: we
must do all we can to protect our keiki and `ohana and mdlama `ding and Icai.
Thank you for this opportunity to testify in favor of passing Bill 167. Please feel free to contact
me at(808)586-6760 or senacasio@capitohhawaii, ov.
Mahalo nui,
jaU4,4_ aa '
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