Gov. Shapiro to Beaver County, East Palestine: 'Our administration stands with you'
The governor of Pennsylvania called for action and accountability in the aftermath of the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio
The governor of Pennsylvania called for action and accountability in the aftermath of the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio
The governor of Pennsylvania called for action and accountability in the aftermath of the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro was one of more than a dozen high ranking officials in East Palestine, Ohio, Tuesday as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ordered Norfolk Southern to pay for the cleanup of the East Palestine train wreck and chemical release.
"It is my view that Norfolk Southern wasn't going to do this out of the goodness of their own heart. There's not a lot of goodness in there," said the Democratic governor, adding, "They needed to be compelled to act."
The governor says his administration's top priority remains the health and safety of Pennsylvania residents impacted by the derailment, specifically those in Beaver County.
After Tuesday's press conference, Shapiro spent the day meeting with some Beaver County residents. He says in the time since the derailment, he has heard two major complaints from neighbors. The first is the need for more testing. The second most popular request is for accountability.
"We are going to deliver both," said Shapiro.
Shapiro says they are working with local municipalities to get their water tested, in addition to the testing that is being done near the derailment site and within the two mile radius of the crash.
There is also testing available for residents who are concerned about their well water. Neighbors are asked to call the Southwest Regional Office of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection at (412)442-4000.
According to the governor, his office made a criminal referral to the acting attorney general to review the accident and Norfolk Southern's response.
Shapiro says the state is seeing no concerning air quality readings, and now officials have started collecting baseline water readings.
"Whatever needs they [PA residents] have will be addressed. Whatever costs are born in Pennsylvania will be paid for Norfolk Southern. There will be no problems relative to Ohio getting something that Pennsylvania does not," said Shapiro.
In the meantime, residents of Beaver County living in ZIP codes 16115, 16120, and 16124 can now call and make an appointment at the Ohio Department of Health Assessment Clinic in East Palestine, according to a new statement from the Ohio Department of Health.
A statement from an Ohio Department of Health spokesperson saying in part, "East Palestine residents living closest to the affected area were initially prioritized, but ODH is now expanding out to a wider area."
The Darlington Township Volunteer Fire Department is offering free cases of water for those neighbors in need. The water was donated from area businesses and people living in the surrounding areas that say they felt compelled to help. Tuesday was the first free giveaway, but more are planned throughout the week.