For decades, families in Compton, San Pedro, and West Long Beach have unknowingly lived next to facilities emitting methyl bromide, a toxic, ozone-depleting pesticide linked to neurological damage, respiratory issues, and developmental harm in unborn children. Despite proven health risks, many communities near these sites have never been informed, tested, or protected.

State regulators and the South Coast Air Quality Management District are dragging their feet. Even after alarming spikes in methyl bromide were detected near Long Beach schools, only some facilities were forced to make safety upgrades. Others, like those in Compton and San Pedro, continue polluting without new restrictions or even public meetings.

Enough is enough. Every child, parent, and resident deserves to know what they’re breathing and to be protected equally.

We call on the South Coast AQMD, the California Air Resources Board, and the Los Angeles County Agricultural Commissioner to:

• Immediately install air monitors in Compton and San Pedro neighborhoods near fumigation sites
• Conduct comprehensive health risk assessments and publicly release the data
• Apply the same safety restrictions to all methyl bromide facilities, regardless of location
• Hold community meetings to inform residents of the risks and proposed solutions
• End the use of methyl bromide near homes, schools, and parks

These are working-class communities, not toxic dumping grounds. Don’t wait for tragedy. Act now to protect public health and bring justice to the neighborhoods that have been ignored for too long.