AUGUSTA - The Legislature's Joint Select Committee on Housing voted unanimously, of those present, on Tuesday to advance LD 470 sponsored by Rep. Kristen Cloutier, D-Lewiston, that would appropriate $1 million for the Maine State Housing Authority's lead abatement program.
Using a combination of state and federal funding, the program currently provides low- and no-cost assistance to homeowners and landlords for lead remediation. Priority for assistance is granted to abatement projects where a child with elevated blood lead levels is present. All of the program's existing funding has now been allocated, and additional funding is necessary for its continuation.
"Lewiston has consistently had the highest estimated numbers of children with lead poisoning in the state," said Cloutier. "But as a result of the crucial work we've done at the state and local level to address lead hazards, the estimated percentage of children in Lewiston under three years of age with elevated blood lead levels now matches the average state level. With additional funding, the Maine State Housing Authority will have the means to continue its important work to protect the health of children and families."
The bill faces further votes in the House and Senate in the coming weeks.
Cloutier is the assistant House majority leader and is currently serving her third term in the Maine House of Representatives. She represents House District 94, which includes part of her hometown of Lewiston.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Cloutier], 305-965-2744