Lead paint poisoning continues to plague New York State and is particularly prevalent in the Big Apple. The state leads the nation in homes that are painted with lead-based paint.
In response to this continuing issue, Mayor Eric Adams has released a report about the city’s efforts to combat lead exposure and announced the appointment of Jasmine Blake as the city’s new lead compliance officer.
Lead paint was banned in the city of New York in the 1960’s, and legislated against in the 1980’s and 90’s but remains a public health hazard because many of the older buildings, especially in poorer areas, remain havens for lead poisoning.
According to City Council stats, there were 111,509 lead paint violations in the city between January 2018 and March 2023. As of March 2023, 45% of all lead-related court cases are concentrated in the Bronx. Brooklyn ranked second for cases. That burden falls mostly on black and brown children in these neighborhoods.
Lack of enforcement of existing lead paint laws is the primary culprit along with loopholes in the laws which allow building owners to circumvent the reforms that would prevent children from being poisoned by lead.
If you or a loved one have been injured by lead paint, contact us for a free initial consultation. We have been successful in litigating these cases in the courts.
Thomas P. Giuffra, Partner
Thomas specializes in the litigation and trial of significant civil sexual assault, medical malpractice, personal injury, mass tort, and product liability actions. His innovative approach has led to 20 verdicts and numerous settlements in excess of one million dollars on behalf of his clients, including a recent landmark verdict for $58 Million. He has been recognized as "outstanding in the field of advocacy" nationally and internationally.
