Siouxland residents witness firsthand the heavy toll air pollution takes on our community. Our area is frequently enveloped in a thick haze of pollution that endangers our health and environment. The consequences are dire: In Woodbury County, asthma rates were the highest in the state for both 2024 and 2025. Additionally, two MidAmerican-owned coal-fired power plants are located near Sioux City. Particulate matter 2.5 emissions from coal plants have been linked to higher mortality rates than other pollution sources. It is clear that immediate action is necessary to protect our community.

For residents living with asthma and other respiratory conditions, access to real-time air quality information is not just helpful — it is essential. Knowing when major polluters are releasing emissions helps vulnerable individuals protect their health by staying indoors or using air purifiers.

The undersigned call on the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to do their job and expand the ambient air monitoring system beyond the minimum requirement; require major industrial polluters to communicate timely warnings about significant emissions events via text, email, and/or automated phone calls; and hold polluters accountable for the toxic pollution they release into Iowa communities. Providing real-time air quality monitoring will empower residents to make informed decisions to protect their health and safety.

By signing this petition, you stand with the people of Siouxland in demanding better air quality monitoring standards. Let's ensure that every resident has access to the information they need to protect themselves and their loved ones. Your signature can help safeguard the health of our community and hold polluters accountable.