ReNews -- Remodelors Council News - 04/19/2006 (Plain Text Version)Vince Butler CAPS, CGR, GMB View Graphical Version | Subscribe to NAHB Publications | Email our Editor... In this issue: EPA Grants Extention on Lead Paint CommentsIn good news for remodeler members of NAHB, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is extending to May 25 the public comment period for its proposed "Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program" rule. This will enable the NAHB Remodelors™ Council to continue testing the actual exposures generated by renovation and remodeling activities, as well as the effectiveness of the lead-safe work practices EPA has proposed under this rule. NAHB contends that the rule targets the wrong industry and will not accomplish the intended goal of reducing lead-paint exposure among small children because it applies only to remodelers or other professionals being paid to make renovations and not to home owners, who do the work themselves more than half the time.
As they are passed on to consumers, the extra costs of the materials and training needed to comply with the proposed lead-safe work practices will only encourage more unregulated "do-it-yourself" remodeling, according to NAHB.
Worst of all, said Remodelors™ Council Chair Vince Butler, a remodeler from Clifton, Va., "The unintended consequences of making it more difficult to hire a remodeler may leave even more children with the potential for exposure."
With more time to conduct testing under the extended comment period, NAHB continues to seek the help of association members in locating appropriate buildings for the research. Members who can assist in this effort are being asked to e-mail environmental policy analyst Gary Suskauer at NAHB, or call him at 800-368-5242 x8327.
Click here to view all materials about lead paint, including the current regulations.
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