Philadelphia councilwoman amends lead paint-testing bill

The bill to monitor lead paint more closely in Philadelphia rental properties has been amended.

City Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown modified the bill after 18 months of haggling. Now, only properties rented to families with children younger than 6 would have to be tested each time there’s a new tenant.

“Last year, there were 1,100 children poisoned by lead,” Brown said. “With that as a reality, we need to do something.”

Units would not have to be tested more frequently than every two years, even if new tenants move in.

The compromise is a good one, said Darryl Zaslow of the Homeowners Association of Philadelphia.

“We have an opportunity … here that will improve the circumstances for everyone,” he said.

A final vote on the bill is expected Thursday.