INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana Democratic Party Chairman John Zody released the following statement on Governor Eric Holcomb’s declaration of disaster in East Chicago, done 70 days after a formal request was made by Mayor Anthony Copeland.

“Governor Holcomb’s order to reverse former Governor Mike Pence’s denial of East Chicago’s request for an emergency declaration concerning lead contamination in their community is an easy decision – but a late one by Statehouse Republicans. Where was the governor, then Lt. Governor, when then-Governor Pence decided to deny this request before leaving office? I can understand why some in that community feel abandoned by the Administration in Indianapolis.We’re talking lead contamination 200 times higher than the safe amount. While it took 70 days to reach the right decision for East Chicago, hopefully now Hoosiers in that community – especially children – will begin to receive the support they need and deserve.”

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