HONOLULU -- Opponents and supporters of a controversial bill that would ban the use of vaccines containing mercury are lobbying the governor.

Mercury is used as a preservative in some vaccines. Some studies have shown potential connections between mercury and autism.

The bill would ban mercury in vaccines statewide by 2007, but allow an exemption if there is a shortage of mercury-free vaccines.

"We're a group of moms that want vaccines safer for our kids, our kids in Hawaii. We want what other states have," Julianne King said.

Six other states, including California and New York, have banned mercury from vaccines.

The state Department of Health and pediatric doctors have opposed the ban, saying the risks are low and they don't want to scare kids and adults from getting vaccinated.