KAILUA. KONA, Hawai'i — A state lawmaker has asked Gov. Linda Lingle to assist and better educate and alert Big Island residents affected by the volcanic smog, or "vog," from Kilauea volcano.

"Big Island residents fear for their health, their pets and farm animals, their water systems, their farm crops and businesses. Yet, the various state agencies are ineffective in providing up-to-date information or any meaningful assistance," said Rep. Bob Herkes, D-Volcano-Kainaliu.

Herkes said he wanted Lingle "to provide either a central contact or clearinghouse that would better serve those whose health and livelihood are endangered."

"Most of the people I have talked to are not sure of the impact of sulfur dioxide on their personal health," he said.

Kilauea on the Big Island has been erupting continuously since 1983. But in mid-March, a new vent formed at the summit, giving Kilauea two large sulfur dioxide outlets instead of one.

Sulfur dioxide, a pollutant that is also generated by burning coal and oil, can lead to asthma and other respiratory illnesses and aggravate lung and heart disease.

When combined with dust and sunlight, it makes vog. Mixed with atmospheric moisture, it produces acid rain.

"At what point in time should planning be initiated for the possible relocation of communities in high-level vog areas?" Herkes said.