Bill > HB477

This bill amends Delaware law to strengthen regulations regarding lead paint on outdoor structures. It prohibits the Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control from exempting facilities with lead-based paint on outdoor structures from the requirements of the law, clarifying that "outdoor structures" are those exposed to outdoor elements and include items like bridges, playground equipment, and utility poles. The bill also expands the purpose of Chapter 30M of Title 16 to include reducing risks by preventing the release of lead from existing outdoor structures and ensuring owners comply with the Delaware Hazardous Substances Cleanup Act (Chapter 91 of Title 7), which deals with environmental contamination. Owners of outdoor structures with lead paint will now be subject to this cleanup act and must take steps to prevent lead release, conduct initial risk assessments within two years of the bill's enactment, and report deteriorating lead paint posing an imminent threat to state agencies. They will also be required to submit a plan for remedial action to prevent lead release, with the option to participate in the state's Voluntary Cleanup Program. Enforcement responsibilities are clarified, and penalties for violations are set at administrative penalties of up to $10,000 per day.