The pervasive presence of radiofrequency (RF) radiation in our daily lives demands stringent safety standards. Yet, the FCC’s 1996 guidelines are shockingly outdated, ignoring decades of scientific evidence on non-thermal effects. It’s imperative we demand a thorough investigation into how these guidelines were created, why they ignore non-thermal effects, and what steps must be taken to protect public health.
The Urgent Need for an Investigation
Regulatory Capture and Conflict of Interest
In 1996, the EPA was stripped of its regulatory authority over RF safety, transferring it to the FCC, an agency with no medical expertise. This shift coincided with the Telecommunications Act, which restricted local governments from considering health impacts in siting decisions. We must uncover the extent of telecommunications industry influence in shaping these guidelines.
Non-Thermal Effects: The Evidence Overlooked
Decades of research have highlighted non-thermal effects, such as oxidative stress, DNA damage, and neurological impacts. The FCC’s guidelines ignore these findings. The investigation must explore why this evidence was dismissed and who benefitted.
Real-World Consequences: Our Children’s Health at Risk
Children across the country attend schools near cell towers, far closer than the 1,500 feet recommended by the BioInitiative Report. In California, a Sprint cell tower near a school was removed after several children developed rare cancers. If adults like California firefighters experience debilitating symptoms from nearby cell towers, the risks to children are unacceptable. An investigation must address these real-world consequences.
Demanding Accountability: Steps for a Thorough Investigation
-
Evaluate Industry Influence: Investigate the telecommunications industry’s role in shaping FCC guidelines.
-
Examine the EPA’s Defunding: Determine the rationale and parties responsible for removing the EPA’s oversight.
-
Reassess Section 704: Analyze its impact on public health and community rights.
-
Integrate Non-Thermal Effects: Ensure future guidelines reflect comprehensive scientific evidence.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
It’s time for transparency, accountability, and updated, evidence-based safety standards. We owe it to our children and ourselves to demand an investigation into the FCC’s RF safety guidelines. The future of public health depends on it.