Senate Sends Clear Message on EPA’s Lead Rule

The amendment, which was passed by a vote of 60 to 37, and cosponsored by several senators, will block funds in the supplemental from being used to "levy against any person any fine, or to hold any person liable for construction or renovation work performed by the person." Following the vote, Senator Inhofe called for the EPW Committee to conduct an oversight hearing to help the public understand the requirements of the rule, as well as problems associated with the rule's implementation. "The passage of our amendment clearly shows there is bipartisan concern about the disastrous implementation of EPA's lead-based paint rule," Senator Inhofe said. "To help alleviate the widespread confusion over the rule's implementation, I am calling on Chairman Boxer to conduct an EPW oversight hearing. I believe we should do everything possible to ensure there are enough classes available in every state and help get as many trainers certified as needed."

Background

The Environmental Protection Agency's Lead RRP went into effect on April 22, 2010. The rule is designed to help reduce lead exposure to pregnant women and children from dust caused by renovations. Unfortunately, the implementation of the rule has been confusing and unclear to constituents--including homeowners, landlords, renovators, and contractors--throughout Oklahoma and nation. The new rule applies to renovations in homes built before 1978 and that disturb more than six square feet of paint. These renovations must be supervised by a certified renovator and conducted by a certified renovation firm. In order to become certified, contractors must submit an application - with a fee - to EPA, and complete a training course for instruction on lead-safe work practices.