Mercury-banning legislation awaits Gov. Blunt's signature

Under the new measure, effective April 1, 2007, the administration of immunizations with more than small amounts of mercury to children under the age of 3 years and to pregnant women is prohibited.

“I am glad that the measure received such resounding support in both chambers,” Champion said in the release. “The advancing of this legislation is proof that we are taking the possible hazards of mercury seriously and making as safe as possible these immunizations that are intended to cure, not harm, our vulnerable children,” she added.