subscribe: Posts | Comments | Email

California Debates Change in State Rock

0 comments

Lawmakers in California have spent the past few weeks deliberating over serpentine, the state rock. In 1965 the rock was awarded the title. Yet in recent years, asbestos has been found to contaminate the mineral, sparking debate over whether or not the rock is an appropriate symbol.

Serpentine was originally named the state rock of California because of its ties to the iconic Gold Rush era. Democratic Representative Gloria Romero has proposed a bill to remove the status from the hazardous rock.

Asbestos is known to cause mesothelioma, a dangerous and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, stomach or heart. The cancer is often found in advanced stages making the disease’s survival rate low.

California has more reported cases of asbestos-related illnesses have been reported than any other state. Governor Schwarzenegger has yet to express a public opinion.

Source:http://calcoastnews.com/2010/07/the-battle-over-the-california-state-rock/

Leave a Reply