The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) denied NAA/NMHC’s request for a two-year compliance assistance period for its new lead-based paint Renovation, Repair and Remodeling (RRP) rule which went into effect on April 22.
In a letter to NAA/NMHC, EPA responded that they believe there are ample trainers and certified renovators to provide services to pre-1978 target properties. EPA downplays the industry’s concerns regarding the scope of the rule and
inconsistencies between the rule and existing OSHA and HUD regulations.
NAA/NMHC met with representatives of EPA and the Small Business Administration on April 23 to urge the agency to provide additional assistance to the regulated community, including access to rapid identification lead-paint test kits that can be used on plaster surfaces.
Separately, Sen. James Inhofe (R-OK) has expressed his concern about the way the EPA has implemented this rule; see http://bit.ly/bYOjau for a video of his comment.