HB 1653 - DIGEST

(SEE ALSO PROPOSED 1ST SUB)

Finds that it is in the public interest to assess the risks to children's health caused by exposure to lead in paint and educate property owners about the potential dangers to children from exposure to lead in paint.

Directs the department and the department of health to jointly assess housing stock in Washington state to identify areas of potentially high risk for child lead exposure. In assessing the housing stock, the department and the department of health may use existing data and targeted testing for child lead exposure. The department and the department of health shall report their findings to the appropriate committees of the legislature by December 31, 2005.

Requires the department, in conjunction with the department of health and the department of ecology, to establish a lead paint hazard education and awareness strategy to notify owners of affected property and tenants about the risks of exposure from lead paint.