Lead Poisoning is a Preventable Problem but the NJ Must Act, Network Tells Assembly Committee
Assembly Health and Senior Services Committee hosts hearing on lead contamination
Washington, D.C. – (RealEstateRama) — The Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey (the Network) along with its partners and allies, was invited to testify today before the New Jersey Assembly Health and Senior Services Committee on the public health consequences of water quality and lead contamination. At the hearing, Network President and Chief Executive Officer Staci Berger issued the following statement:
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“Childhood lead poisoning is a completely preventable problem but continues to plague our communities. Last year, 3,100 children were found with elevated blood lead levels. One child, is one too many. No child should be exposed to this toxin when there is funding that exists to protect these children.
“State law mandates that a portion of the retail sale of paint must go towards lead prevention in the state budget. Regrettably, Governor Christie has ignored the law and over 100 organizations who urged him to appropriate $10 million in the budget for lead prevention. We need the legislature to right this wrong by putting those dollars back where they belong.
“We want to thank the committee and Chairman Conway for hosting this hearing and allowing us to raise awareness of this threat to childhood public health and safety. Whether it is lead in water, or more commonly in New Jersey, lead in homes, this is a toxic threat to our children’s future. We can and we must stop another generation of kids from suffering.”
About the Housing and Community Development Network of NJ
The Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey is the statewide association of more than 250 community development corporations, individuals and other organizations that support the creation of affordable homes, economic opportunities, and strong communities. For more information on the Network, visit www.hcdnnj.org.
For more information: Nina Arce
(609) 393-3752 x1200
Website: hcdnnj.org
Twitter site: twitter.com/hcdnnj
Facebook site: facebook.com/hcdnnj
