N.Y. Senator Calls for More Federal Spending for Home Lead Removal

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U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) is calling for more federal spending to help homeowners pay for lead paint removal.

The Journal News says the New York senator made the announcement Monday after visiting an older home in Yonkers, New York. He said it was an example of a property that benefited from a federal program that helps eligible homeowners decrease lead-paint contamination.

Schumer called on lawmakers to increase the $110 million budget for the Lead Hazard Control and Health Home grant program to $230 million. He says he’s also introduced a bill that would create a $4,000 tax credit to assist homeowners in paying for lead paint removal.

Lead was commonly used in house paint until 1978 when it was banned.

Lead poisoning in children can affect brain development and cause behavioral problems.