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Rice Measure Looks To Expand Lead Paint Safety Requirments

Senator Ronald Rice on the Auto Insurance Bill Signing

TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senator Ronald L. Rice to require lead paint testing at all rental properties received final legislative approval today when the Senate approved the measure.

“Contact with concentrated amounts of lead can result in serious health problems especially for children,” said Senator Rice, D-Essex. “Many household paints applied in the early 70’s contained lead, and now if the dangerous paint is ingested by children, they could end up with long term health risks. It’s important that all dwellings are tested in order to keep our children safe.”

The bill, S-2622, would require the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to inspect single-family and two-family rental dwellings for lead paint, under the “Hotel and Multiple Dwelling Law,” once every five years.

According to Senator Rice, “Current law only requires that lead paint inspections occur in rentals of three or more units.”

Senator Rice noted that under the bill the DCA would be required to enforce corrections and punish violations. Under the bill, owners who failed to have their properties inspected would be liable for a penalty of $200 for each unit, added Senator Rice.

The bill now heads to the Governor’s office for enactment. ###

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