The vast majority of childhood lead poisoning cases stem from paint in old homes, disproportionately harming low-income families and children on Medicaid. Photo: Shutterstock
March 7, 2025 (Concord, NH) – The New Hampshire House of Representatives failed children in the Granite State by rejecting HB 724, a crucial bill that would have protected them from lead poisoning in their own homes. Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) denounces this vote by a majority of New Hampshire’s House members – a vote that rejected important solutions for preventing childhood lead poisoning and its life-altering impacts on children.
“As a mother and environmental advocate, I am deeply troubled by the House’s vote,” said Heidi Trimarco, Staff Attorney at CLF. “Lead poisoning is a silent thief that robs children of their futures. Our lawmakers had the power to better protect our kids – and instead, a majority of them turned their backs on the families who need help the most.”
“This bill was a no-brainer – common sense protections, no cost to the state, and life-changing benefits for kids,” she added. “New Hampshire just hit a record for lead poisoning – and instead of working to end this crisis, lawmakers chose to walk away.”
Childhood lead poisoning is preventable, yet New Hampshire reported 1,142 cases of children poisoned by lead in 2023 alone – the highest number since the state began requiring testing. The vast majority of these cases stem from lead paint in old homes, disproportionately harming low-income families and children on Medicaid.
HB 724 would have implemented measures, including stricter inspections for lead hazards, stronger safety protocols for renovations, and greater awareness of the risks in older homes.
CLF will continue to fight for stronger lead protections and hold lawmakers accountable for their failure to act. Every child deserves a safe home – New Hampshire’s leaders must step up and ensure that no more kids suffer the life-changing impacts of this preventable poison.
CLF experts are available for further comment.
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