Senate Bill No. by Senator McMath aims to enhance lead poisoning prevention measures in Louisiana by establishing a comprehensive Lead Poisoning Prevention and Control Program within the Louisiana Department of Health. The bill mandates lead testing for early learning centers, prekindergarten programs, and elementary schools built before 1978, requiring the submission of lead testing results for occupancy approval. It also outlines procedures for mandatory reporting of lead poisoning cases, detection of lead sources, and the sale and use of lead-based paint. The legislation emphasizes public education and the availability of screening and treatment for children under six years old and other at-risk individuals.

In addition to these provisions, the bill repeals certain redundant or unnecessary regulations, consolidating lead poisoning regulations under Title 40. It removes the requirement for owners of child-occupied facilities and inspectors to jointly notify the Department of Environmental Quality and the state health officer about lead hazards and testing results, as well as the obligation to display this notification prominently. Furthermore, the bill prohibits the sale of lead-based paint altogether. While it retains the authority of the Louisiana Department of Health to conduct inspections and issue permits for schools and public buildings, it introduces new requirements for lead testing in older educational facilities, with changes set to take effect on August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB37 Original: 40:6(B), 30:1(7), 30:52(A), 40:6(G)