The National Institutes of Health under President Donald Trump is looking into a health study following the train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, back on February 3, 2023.
This incident led to some serious toxic chemical spills. On Thursday, top health officials from Trump’s team spoke with Fox News about their ongoing efforts to push forward the president’s “Make America Healthy Again” plan.
NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya mentioned the agency’s collaboration with Vice President JD Vance on this study. “The study that most people don’t know about that the NIH has been doing — we’ve been working with Vice President Vance to look at a study and find answers for people affected in East Palestine by that train disaster that happened during the Biden administration,” Bhattacharya explained. He pointed out how surprising it was that the NIH hadn’t addressed this issue sooner.
Vance, who visited East Palestine in February for the second anniversary of the disaster, expressed his and Trump’s commitment to the town.
“President Trump and I have never forgotten the people of East Palestine, and we will never stop fighting for the cleanup effort in this community to be completed,” Vance wrote on X. He emphasized that they are in it for the long-term, ensuring the cleanup is finished.
Vance criticized the Biden administration for their slow response to the disaster, noting that it took Biden a year to visit the town. The Environmental Protection Agency’s initial data from 2023 indicated that nine out of around fifty chemicals tested had relatively high concentrations compared to what’s considered safe for lifetime exposure. These findings highlighted potential health risks, particularly concerning chemicals like acrolein, a known respiratory irritant.
In September, a federal judge approved a $600 million settlement for East Palestine residents affected by the derailment. Norfolk Southern, the company responsible for operating the train, was held accountable for the entire settlement. An Ohio jury recently confirmed that GATX, the owner of the derailed train cars, would not be contributing to the payment.
Norfolk Southern has been covering the costs related to the derailment, acknowledging their responsibility for the accident. “Our belief has always been that GATX shares in that responsibility and should also be held to account,” Norfolk Southern stated.
Meanwhile, GATX was satisfied with the trial’s outcome, stating, “the jury’s decision affirms what we have known for some time: Norfolk Southern alone is responsible for the derailment and resulting damage in East Palestine.”
Despite the significant legal proceedings and ongoing research, the NIH has not responded to Blaze News’ request for comment.
The situation remains a focal point for those committed to ensuring safety and health standards for the affected community. The efforts to address the disaster’s fallout reflect a broader commitment to public health and accountability.
The collaboration between the NIH and Vice President Vance underscores a dedicated push to resolve the health concerns stemming from this environmental disaster.
As the situation continues to unfold, the focus remains on securing a safe environment for East Palestine residents. The ongoing research and legal resolutions are steps toward achieving that goal.
Through persistent efforts, the community of East Palestine is receiving the attention and support needed to address the aftermath of the derailment.
The determination of Trump’s team to see this through exemplifies a steadfast commitment to the people affected. Residents can hopefully look forward to a safer and healthier future as these initiatives progress.
