Currently, mercury is exported to developing countries for use in highly polluting industries like mining. It contaminates both the air and water at high levels, impacting not only the local environment but also the environment thousands of miles away when it enters our food chain.

My colleagues at NRDC have been working on the Mercury Market Minimization Act for years, and it was a tremendous victory for them - as well as for people at risk of mercury exposure - when Congress agreed to ban the export of this dangerous substance.

At a time when policy has taken a backseat to partisanship, this bill's passage is a shining light during a tough time in DC. With impressive bipartisan support, the House passed the bill by a vote of 395-5, and the Senate passed it by Unanimous Consent. You can read about the bill in NRDC's press release.

Now the spotlight turns to President Bush, who received the bill more than a week ago and has yet to sign it. As soon as he signs it, the legislation takes effect, banning all exports as of Jan. 1, 2013. If he doesn't sign the bill by October 15th, it automatically takes effect. With only a few months to go before the end of his presidency, I hope he puts down the veto pen and instead uses this opportunity to enact bipartisan legislation that protects people's health both here and abroad.