37 Years Later, Lead Paint Is Still Problem In Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- It may be hard to believe that 37 years after lead paint was banned, it remains a problem in Philadelphia. But the federal government wants to help and the city received nearly $4 million today to get the lead out of homes.
Some 90% of Philadelphia homes were built before the lead paint ban, so the process of eliminating it has been a long one. Despite progress, Health Commissioner James Buehler says more than 500 children a year are found with elevated lead levels.
"Even low levels of lead can result in reductions in IQ, behavioral problems, learning disabilities and other health problems," he said.
Philadelphia's not alone. The Department of Housing and Urban Development announced grants to 32 local governments to tackle the problem. Regional Administrator Jane Vincent says the Philadelphia grant will make 285 low-income homes lead-safe.
"Children should not have to be in harm's way when they're watching cartoons or joining their family for dinner, " Vincent said.