Date: Tue, 1 Apr 2003 11:07:39 -0500 (EST)
From: belmonte@MIT.EDU (Matthew Belmonte)
To: CapuanoHR8@aol.com
Subject: support HR 1483, the Depleted Uranium Munitions Study Act

Dear Representative Capuano

I hope that you'll consider co-sponsoring HR 1483, the Depleted Uranium
Munitions Study Act of 2003.  As you know, depleted uranium shells were
used by coalition forces in the first Gulf War in 1991, and are again
being used in the current conflict.  Depleted uranium is chemically toxic
and is also a low-level emitter of alpha radiation.  Although it is
relatively safe when it remains whole, after it is pulverised or burnt
in exploding shells it can easily enter the human body.  Physicians in
Iraq have reported a skyrocketing rate of cancer and birth defects in
Iraqi civilians in the years since the first Gulf War -- effects that may
be related to uranium toxicity.  In addition, depleted uranium may play a
role in Gulf War Syndrome among American combat veterans.  For both of
these reasons, the toxicity of depleted uranium deserves serious scientific
study.  HR 1483 would require that such study be undertaken.  It would also
authorise environmental cleanups of weapons production sites in the United
States that have been contaminated with depleted uranium.  This domestic
cleanup might also pave the way for America's taking responsibility for
cleaning up its expended munitions in Iraq.

Again, in order to support Iraqi non-combatants as well as American veterans
of both Gulf Wars, I hope that you'll co-sponsor HR 1483, the Depleted Uranium
Munitions Study Act.  I look forward to hearing your views on this important
issue.

Matthew Belmonte
[address]