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WASHINGTON, DC—U.S. Representatives Paul D. Tonko (D-NY) and Tim Walberg (R-MI) announced the introduction of bipartisan legislation to help protect our nation’s children from lead exposure. H.R. 5552, the Lead Poisoning Prevention Act, strengthens federal initiatives aimed at childhood lead screening, reporting, and prevention. The bill also codifies into law the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention and tasks the committee with making recommendations and reporting to Congress and the public on lead poisoning prevention best practices.
 
“We know the dangers of lead and its devastating effects on our communities,” Congressman Tonko said. “Despite this knowledge, millions of children across America continue to suffer the harmful and lasting effects from lead exposure, whether through contaminated water or other sources. I’ve worked for years in Congress to keep children safe from this toxin and provide vital support to those impacted by lead contamination, and I’m proud to join Representative Walberg to introduce this bipartisan legislation that will protect the health of Americans and make our communities safer by working to prevent lead poisoning.”

“Sadly, too many communities across Michigan know firsthand the harmful impacts of lead exposure, particularly for kids. Lead poisoning can lead to detrimental health outcomes and hinder a child’s ability to reach his or her full potential in life,” said Rep. Walberg. “By bolstering programs focused on reducing exposure and strengthening prevention, we can take significant steps to combat lead poisoning. I am pleased to work with Representative Tonko on this bipartisan effort to protect vulnerable families and improve quality of life in our communities.”

Click here for the full text of H.R. 5552.

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