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City Council Hears Arguments for Preventing Lead Poisoning

Lead poisoning is a common but preventable environmental hazard. Lead is found in old paint, soil, and some pottery and toys. Children exposed to lead can suffer from physical and mental problems. The

City Council Hears Arguments for Preventing Lead Poisoning

Tom Fudge: This afternoon the San Diego City Council will host a hearing on an ordinance, aimed at reducing the risk of lead poisoning. The proposed law is called the Lead Hazard Prevention and Control Ordinance . It was actually passed by the city council's Land Use and Housing Committee four years ago. It's yet to be approved by the full council and the mayor.

The ordinance would put in place a number of new regulations. Most of them are meant to protect kids from exposure to lead paint in older homes. For instance, whenever a house in San Diego, built before 1978, is sold, it must be inspected. Measures must be taken to either remove or cover lead-based paint.

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Advocates say this is important for guaranteeing the safety of children. But the ordinance is controversial for what it requires of homeowners and housing managers.

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