Getting the lead out

State laws will conform to new federal rules designed to keep Minnesotans safe from the hazards of lead-based paint in old homes.

Sponsored by Rep. Karen Clark (DFL-Mpls) and Sen. Ken Kelash (DFL-Mpls), a new law will incorporate the new Environmental Protection Agency rules into the state’s building code and contractor licensing requirements. It takes effect Feb. 1, 2011.

The EPA adopted rules requiring contractors who work on homes built prior to 1978 to receive special training on how to keep themselves and the homeowners safe from dust particles of lead-based paint. The law will require contractors to be certified in lead safety procedures, and also require that cities issuing permits for work on pre-1978 homes verify that contractors are certified.

Clark said the goal of the law is partially to raise awareness of the new federal rule, which went into effect April 22, 2010, and encourage contractors to complete the required training. The law does not add any additional requirements above and beyond what is already in the EPA rule.

HF3292/ SF3128*/CH321