U.S. Rep Annie Kuster

WASHINGTON – U.S. Reps. Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (GA-01) introduced the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act. This bipartisan legislation creates a new grant program to install carbon monoxide alarms in the homes of elderly and low-income individuals, as well as schools and other public facilities. The Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act also provides incentives for states to pass laws to require CO alarms. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that is produced whenever fossil fuels are burned. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are over 400 deaths and 20,000 emergency room visits caused by carbon monoxide poisoning every year.

“The surge in carbon monoxide poisoning cases after the extreme winter weather and resulting power outages in Texas and across the country is a sad reminder of the danger of this invisible killer,” said Rep. Kuster. “One carbon monoxide death is too many, and by installing detectors in homes and public buildings, we can protect some of our nation’s most vulnerable citizens from this deadly gas. I look forward to working with my colleagues to once again pass this commonsense, bipartisan legislation.”

“There have been serious carbon monoxide poisoning incidents at home in the First District of Georgia,” said Rep. Carter. “While the State of Georgia has made important strides on this issue, there is still more work to be done. I am glad to work with Representative Kuster again this Congress to help protect Americans from carbon monoxide poisoning.”

Rep. Kuster has been a vocal advocate for more congressional action to protect citizens and promote awareness about carbon monoxide poisoning. Last Congress, she introduced a previous version of the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act, which passed the House of Representatives in June 2019.

Newsletter