View Rule

Statement of Need: Childhood lead poisoning is a pervasive problem in the United States, with almost a million young children having more than 10 ug/dl of lead in their blood, (Center for Disease Control's level of concern). Elevated blood-lead levels can lead to reduced intelligence and neurobehavioral problems in young children, as well as causing other adverse health effects in children and adults. Although there have been dramatic declines in blood-lead levels due to reductions of lead in paint, gasoline, and food sources, remaining paint in older houses remains the significant source of childhood lead poisoning. This regulation is a focal point of the Federal lead program and supports the implementation of regulations already promulgated (e.g., lead hazard disclosure in real estate transactions) as well as others under development (e.g., renovation and remodeling). By supporting the implementation of the national lead program, this rule would help prevent lead poisoning in children under the age of six.

Summary of the Legal Basis: This action is mandated by TSCA section 403.

Alternatives: Alternatives were discussed in the proposed rule. Alternatives will be further considered as part of the proposed rule's comment review.

Anticipated Costs and Benefits: Although this action doesn't require any action, the costs associated with the establishment of these levels were estimated in a draft economic impact analysis that was prepared for the proposed rule. Since benefits depend on private sector implementation of certain lead hazard abatement activities which are not mandated by any of these rules, benefits will be difficult to quantify. During its review of the NPRM under EO 12866, OMB attributed the potential impact of all of the lead regulations to this rule and determined that this action should be classified as economically significant.

Risks: This rule is aimed at reducing the prevalence and severity of lead poisoning, particularly in children.