Bill > HB724

This bill addresses lead paint poisoning prevention and remediation by implementing several key changes to existing law. It lowers the blood lead action level from 5 to 3.5 micrograms per deciliter, which means the Department of Health and Human Services will now investigate cases of lead poisoning at a lower threshold, potentially identifying more children at risk. The bill mandates that building permit applications for structures built before 1978 must include the EPA's Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) license number, ensuring that contractors working on older buildings are properly certified to handle lead-based paint safely. Additionally, the bill requires that when a lead hazard is found in one unit of a multi-unit building, the department must inspect all other units in the building, expanding the scope of lead hazard investigations. Notably, the bill creates a legal presumption that housing built before 1978 contains lead-based substances, which can be challenged only if a lead inspector determines otherwise. This presumption could have significant implications for property owners and legal proceedings related to lead exposure. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, and while it does not provide direct funding, it is expected to increase the workload and potential costs for the Department of Health and Human Services.

Health and Social Services

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_status.aspx?lsr=0698&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB724