Woonsocket Radio News Room

Senate passes Acosta’s lead hazard mitigation bill

 

            STATE HOUSE – The Senate today passed legislation (2023-S 0656A) sponsored by Sen. Jonathon Acosta (D-Dist. 16, Central Falls, Pawtucket) which would require lead hazard mitigation for pre-1978 rental dwelling units.

            “Lead poisoning, particularly with children, is still a serious and pervasive problem in Rhode Island that needs to be corrected and this bill will close a loophole that allowed too many old buildings to continue to poison our residents. With the passage of this bill and other similar pieces of legislation, I am eager to see the tragic stories of lead poisoning end as we eliminate the dangers of lead from Rhode Island once and for all,” said Senator Acosta.

            The legislation removes the exemption from owner occupied two- or three-unit homes, allowing the state to enforce the Lead Hazard Mitigation Act.  This act would take effect on January 1, 2024.

            The bill now heads to the House for consideration where Rep. Brandon T. Voas (D-Dist. 57, Cumberland, Central Falls) has introduced the legislation (2023-H 5946A).

 

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