Effects Of Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazards

Congress passed the Residential Lead-Based Paint Reduction Act of 1992, also referred to as Title X, which required sellers to provide full disclosure of lead-based paint hazards to potential homebuyers and lessees. The implementation of this law intended to prevent exposure to lead-based paint in homes especially for children under six years old. 83% of homes built in the United States prior to 1980 have potential lead-based paint hazards making it the biggest source of lead poisoning. High blood-lead levels (BLL) leads to permanent detrimental health effects so primary prevention of the disease is the best treatment. Since the law’s enactment, the number of children testing positive for high BLLs drastically decreased over time. Those who
were non-compliant of the Act could receive harsh civil and criminal penalties. Avoidance of these penalties provided incentive for home sellers to follow disclosure regulations. Overall Title X did have an impact on its intended goal of lead exposure prevention as well as being a good foundation for state legislations to act upon. Limitations included failure of states to implement their own policies.