Lead-Based Paint Exposure: Laying the Foundation for the Adoption of State-Run Lead Programs in New Mexico

Childhood exposure to lead can result in serious adverse health effects that include learning disabilities, behavioral issues, and lowered IQ. Children and pregnant women are particularly susceptible to lead exposure. Children with blood lead levels of 5 µg/dL or greater are considered to be at high risk. One known source of exposure is lead-based paint in homes and structures built prior to 1978. There are 2 programs focused on reducing this specific exposure: the Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Program and the Lead Abatement Program. EPA Region 6 is comprised of 5 states: Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Currently, Oklahoma is the only state with a state-run RRP Program. Additionally, New Mexico is the only state that does not have a state-run Lead Abatement Program. Recently, the New Mexico Department of Health expressed a renewed interest in evaluating the benefits of adopting a state-run lead program (RRP and/or abatement). The research goal for this second fellowship year is to promote and encourage the adoption of state-run lead programs in New Mexico, in order to reduce health risks associated with childhood exposure to lead-based paint. This project focuses on the intersection of environmental policy and public health policy. A strategy document is being created that will detail the processes associated with working with public officials and health advocacy groups in New Mexico to promote and encourage them to develop a generic work plan to study adopting lead RRP and abatement programs; the final document will discuss what was accomplished and hopes for the future.