Bill sets up Tar Creek relocation program

Friday, May 21st 2004, 7:30 pm

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The Oklahoma Senate on Friday passed Gov. Brad Henry's bill to set up a fund for a voluntary relocation of families with young children in the Tar Creek Superfund Site.

Henry said the bill provides "much-needed and long-awaited assistance" to families in the Tar Creek area in northeastern Oklahoma.

"I believe, as do many lawmakers and citizens, that we have a moral responsibility to help the most vulnerable citizens there. My goal is to help as many children as I can with the limited state resources that are available."

Plans are to spend $5 million over two years on the relocation of families.

Henry says research shows young children are at risk for lead exposure that causes a variety of health problems, including learning disabilities.

The bill now goes to the House for final consideration.