Kucinich Moves to Save Cleveland's Two Million Dollars in Lead Removal Funds

Press Release

Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-OH) today appealed to the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary to reverse a decision that would take away $2 million from a lead paint abatement program in the City of Cleveland.

"Twenty-one percent of children tested in the Cleveland area had elevated levels of lead in their blood according to the Cuyahoga County Board of Health. For the sake of the health of our children we must move swiftly. I am calling upon federal officials to work with the city and me to find a way to ensure that the money remains available and is spent wisely to remove lead from our homes," said Kucinich.

Kucinich this morning immediately contacted HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan's office, with whom Kucinich has personally worked with on many issues, after reports that HUD revoked access to a $2 million fund to remove lead paint from homes.

Kucinich requested a meeting next week between HUD officials and city and county representatives to collectively figure out a way to maintain protections for Cleveland's children. Kucinich suggested maintaining the funding under terms that are modeled on those which allowed the City to maintain funds under a similar $1.1 million grant.

Congressman Kucinich is the highest ranking Democrat on the Oversight and Government Reform Committee with jurisdiction over regulatory affairs. He has consistently fought for funding for lead prevention and abatement programs, including winning amendments to remove lead from schools. Our Congressman also played a role in the major victory in strengthening Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules that regulate the use and treatment of lead in painting, renovation and repair work.

"There is no safe level of lead in the blood. Kids exposed to lead are known to be at risk for heart/lung problems, immune system effects, and hormonal imbalances in addition to other problems like attention span disorders and lower academic achievement.

"This is too important to our children. We have to protect their health and safety. We have to get the money back. We have to get the program moving forward. Protecting our children's health cannot be put on hold." added Kucinich.

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