Ruppersberger Introduces Legislation that
Offers Valuable Tax Credits for Lead Paint Removal

(Baltimore, MD)- Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) introduced legislation that offers tax credits for the safe removal of lead paint in America’s homes.  The Congressman joined the Thornton Family at their Baltimore City home on Monday, October 22, 2007.  The family’s young son received lead paint poisoning and had to live with his grandmother until the lead paint was cleaned up from the family home.   

“Lead paint poisoning is dangerous for children and their families but is completely preventable.  I am introducing the ‘Home Lead Safety Tax Credit Act of 2007’ to encourage homeowners and landlords to get rid of hazardous lead paint in their homes and rental units.  This tax credit can really help us make Maryland homes safe for children and their families,” said Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD). 

The “Home Lead Safety Tax Credit Act of 2007” provides:

• Tax credits for homeowners and landlords that can cover up to 50% of the costs of reducing lead paint hazards in U.S. homes. 
• Up to a $3,000 tax credit for getting rid of lead paint and replacing painted surfaces, windows, or fixtures contaminated with lead paint.
• Up to a $1,000 tax credit for specialized cleaning, temporary containment, monitoring, and resident education about lead paint contamination. 

In 2006, more than 1,200 children in Maryland tested positive for elevated lead levels in their blood.  Even low levels of lead poisoning can be detrimental for children.  Children from birth to age six are at greatest risk while their neurological systems are developing.  Lead exposure can cause hyperactivity, aggressive behavior, learning disabilities, lowered IQ, speech delay, and hearing impairment.  High levels of lead can cause severe mental disabilities, convulsions, coma, or even death. 

The event also kicked off “National Lead Poisoning Prevention and Healthy Homes Awareness Week” in Maryland.  Secretary Shari Wilson of the Maryland Department of the Environment, Dr. Joshua Sharfstein, Baltimore City Health Commissioner, and Ruth Ann Norton, the Executive Director of the Coalition to End Childhood Lead Poisoning also attended the event.

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