3/21/2014
Credited with Rebooting Federal Healthy Homes/Lead Poisoning Prevention Efforts at CDC
Senator Jack Reed Honored by National and Local Groups
Credited with “Rebooting” Federal Healthy Homes/Lead Poisoning Prevention Efforts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The National Safe and Healthy Housing Coalition and the Childhood Lead Action Project delivered the Child Health Champion Award to U.S. Senator Jack Reed yesterday for securing federal funding for lead poisoning prevention. Lead poisoning is a preventable tragedy that dramatically impacts a child’s health and ability to learn.
“I am pleased we were able to restore funding for these important lead poisoning prevention programs," said Senator Reed, "but our work is not finished. Millions of Americans, including a staggering number of children and families right here in Rhode Island, remain at risk. We must be proactive and continue to invest in the health and development of our children."
Advocates and health officials were stunned in 2012 when Congress slashed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Healthy Homes/Lead Poisoning Prevention Program by 94 percent—from $29.0 to $2.5 million. Capitol Hill insiders advised that it would take a “miracle” to bring back funding for this program amidst the federal budget battles. The FY14 appropriations bill includes $15 million for the program.
Read the full press release.