WTAE – Pittsburgh city councilors unveiled a new law Tuesday, aimed at protecting against toxic lead poisoning.
The “Pittsburgh Lead Safety Law” would proactively assess common pathways of exposure.
If passed, lead filters would be put in all city-owned drinking facilities. All demolitions would need to acquire a permit for a lead-safe plan, limiting the possible spread of lead dust to neighbors. Rental homes and places “where children spend time,” would be assessed for lead during routine inspections.
“So they’ll be looking for paint that is chipping and cracking and peeling. They’ll be looking for lead pipes. They’ll be looking for bare soil, which is another place of exposure,” said Michelle Naccarati-Chapkis, the executive director of Women for a Healthy Environment.
At a press announcement Tuesday, officials said around 400 area kids are diagnosed with lead poisoning each year.
The ordinance is now being introduced to the city council, and members of the public may comment ahead of a final vote next month. More information is available at GetTheLeadOutPgh.org.
City councilors said Tuesday that $2 million in federal coronavirus aid would pay for the costs associated with the law.
