SB would ramp up the state's efforts to eliminate lead paint exposure and lead poisoning for children. (Jarek Rutz/Delaware LIVE News)

State looks to rectify effects of lead paint with new bill

Jarek RutzHeadlines, Health

A state senator introduced a bill Monday that would crack down on lead paint in homes, including rental apartments, to prevent lead poisoning in children. Senate Bill 9, sponsored by Sarah McBride, D-Wilmington, would create a process for health officials to identify and remediate homes that contain exposed lead paint, which includes screening every residential rental property in Delaware.  The …

Mark Holodick said he anticipates the second round of testing for lead in school water will be completed near the end of April. (Unsplash)

DOE owns lead testing blunder, expects new results by May

Jarek RutzHeadlines, Education

A Senate committee hearing Tuesday heard the state Secretary of Education apologize about the way lead testing in schools was handled and that trained pros will handle testing instead of school staff. Through a federal grant, the Department of Education began a sampling initiative in October, 2020 to identify the levels of lead within drinking water at schools. “While well-intentioned, …