This is one of the biggest moments in the fight to eliminate lead poisoning in Michigan.
All toddlers across the state could soon be routinely tested for lead poisoning during their visits to the doctor, giving thousands of children once undiagnosed the treatment they need. What's more, many workers could also soon be certified to safely renovate and repair lead-poisoned homes, protecting thousands of families. Both of these actions could help us find and eliminate the lead in our homes.
Legislation in Michigan would make these things happen, and they have the support of Democrats and Republicans alike. Universal testing and better contractor certification could be the most transformational actions we have taken against lead poisoning since lead paint was banned 45 years ago.
That makes Lead Education Day all the more important. It is our chance to let lawmakers know lead poisoning is still a problem for Michiganders statewide, it is entirely preventable, and that there are solutions right before them.
Lead Education Day is hosted each spring by the Michigan Alliance for Lead Safe Homes, or MIALSH. The Michigan Environmental Council is its co-creator, funder and organizer.
MIALSH is made up of physicians, nurses, housing professionals, young leaders, and, most crucially, everyday Michigan advocates, some of whom have their beloved family members become poisoned by lead in their own homes.
Since 2010, we've helped secure millions of dollars toward lead poisoning prevention efforts, but universal lead testing has long been our top priority.
Together, we can help make lead poisoning old history, not a heartbreaking reality.
