State Representative Karen Clark (DFL – Minneapolis) applauded Governor Dayton’s signature of HF 166/SF 139, a bill that extends time given to contractors to register with the Department of Labor and Industry that they are certified in lead specialization.
Under current law, a building inspector must prove that a contractor received their EPA certificate in lead specialization when remodeling pre-1978 houses, by confirming their certification online. Under SF139, contractors who receive their certification now have until August 1st to post their name on the verified list, viewable on the Department of Labor and Industry’s website. The bill passed unanimously out of the House and Senate and was signed by the governor on February 17.
“I’m very proud that this bill is the first bill signed by Governor Dayton to become law this legislative session,” Rep. Clark said. “This bill is another step in ensuring that our children are safe from lead poisoning.”
Lead is a serious toxin that interferes with the development of the nervous system and is therefore particularly toxic to children, causing potentially permanent brain damage after even limited exposure.
Rep. Clark worked with several organizations, including the Builders Association of Minnesota, the EPA and child lead advocacy groups in crafting the bill.
“This is a bipartisan, environmental safety, children’s health and jobs bill all rolled into one,” she added. “It protects our children and the environment from lead poisoning and gives contractors more time to register their certification with the Department of Labor and Industry, generating momentum in the residential building construction industry.”
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