New Legislation Seeks to Prohibit Burning of Tires, Asbestos, Other Toxins in Open-Air Burnpits

WASHINGTON, D.C. –– A representative from New Hampshire has introduced legislation that would ban the burning of tires, treated wood, plastics, fuel containers, asbestos and lubricant products in open-air burn pits.

The legislation, filed June 6 by Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH), aims to define the term "covered waste" for purposes of the Department of Defense prohibition on disposal of waste in open-air burn pits.

According to a release issued by Rep. Shea-Porter’s office, the House Armed Services Committee agreed to the amendment to the FY 2014 National Defense Authorization Act on June 5.

Titled the “Save Our Soldiers’ Lungs …