The U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation that would protect military families from the threat of lead exposure in their homes, according to Michigan television station WJMN-TV. The legislation is rolled into the National Defense Authorization Act of Fiscal Year 2020.

The legislation would:

  • Guarantee all children of military families who are at risk of lead exposure are tested in compliance with the American Academy of Pediatrics’ best practices.
  • Allow third party testing for lead-based paint in homes on military bases.
  • Ensure military leaders are following the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s regulations for inspecting lead-based paint in military homes.

“Every family in America, and especially our service members, should be able to trust that their home is free from lead. There is no safe level of lead and my hometown of Flint knows all too well the effects of lead exposure. By expanding lead testing in military housing, this legislation will protect our service members and their families. I am proud of House Democrats for acting today to help eliminate lead exposure and keep our children safe,” said Congressman Dan Kildee, the bill's sponsor.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is no safe level of lead exposure in people. Lead exposure can lead to damage to the brain and nervous system, slowed growth and development, learning and behavior problems, and hearing and speech problems.

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