The facts have not changed: New York State has the highest incidence of childhood lead poisoning nationally because 5.3 million homes where many children reside were built before 1978 when lead paint was used. Renters and buyers move into their homes without knowing whether lead is still present and are sometimes only made aware after a blood screening result show elevated lead levels. When children are poisoned, it results in damage to the brain and nervous system, lower IQs, slowing of growth and development, impacts to hearing and speech, and learning and behavioral problems.

Federal law currently requires that sellers or lessors of pre-1978 housing stock disclose to their buyers or renters any knowledge they have of lead-based paint in the residence, but the law does not require or incentivize lead-based paint inspection. The Lead Based Paint Disclosure Act will ensure that testing happens and close the loophole that allows property owners to avoid knowing. It will require the New York State Department of Health to issue a report to track and address homes that have lead present.

Renters and buyers deserve to know the truth about the presence of lead in their potential homes before making a financial commitment that may be detrimental to the health of their families’ lives.

It can be done – we just need your help! Let Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie and Senate President Pro Tempore Andrea Stewart - Cousins know how important it is that these bills are brought to the floor for a vote.  

Don’t know what to say? We’ve got you covered! Use the form on this page to send a letter to Assemblymember Heastie and Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins to let them know the importance of increased funding for the 2022-23 budget.