Lawmakers in Ohio and Michigan are urging Congress to increase federal funding for lead paint removal in older homes. The push comes as both states face some of the highest concentrations of pre-1978 housing in the nation — the year lead-based paint was banned for residential use.
For homeowners in Michigan, especially those in the Detroit metro area, this news hits close to home. Decades-old housing stock means millions of families may be living with hidden lead paint hazards. According to state officials, Michigan ranks among the top states for lead paint prevalence in residential properties.
The bipartisan effort aims to secure additional dollars for the Lead Hazard Reduction Grant Program, which helps low- and moderate-income families remove lead-based paint from their homes. Supporters say the current funding levels are not enough to address the scale of the problem in older industrial cities.
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Lead-based paint was widely used in American homes before 1978. Over time, this paint breaks down, chips, and creates dust that settles on floors, windowsills, and other surfaces. Young children are especially vulnerable because they often put their hands and objects in their mouths.
The EPA estimates that approximately 24 million housing units in the United States still contain deteriorating lead paint and elevated levels of lead-contaminated dust. In Michigan, the combination of aging housing stock and harsh winters — which keep families indoors — can increase exposure risks.
MycoTest's state-by-state environmental hazard map shows elevated risk in Michigan, particularly in cities with large numbers of homes built before World War II.
What the Proposed Funding Would Do
The lawmakers are asking for increased appropriations to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs that fund lead paint removal. These programs currently help qualifying homeowners and landlords pay for:
- Professional lead paint inspections and risk assessments
- Safe removal or encapsulation of lead-based paint
- Replacement of lead-contaminated windows and doors
- Post-remediation clearance testing
However, demand far outstrips available funding. In many communities, waitlists for assistance stretch for months or even years. The proposed funding increase would help more families address lead hazards before they cause harm.
How Homeowners Can Protect Their Families Now
While federal assistance programs are helpful, they cannot reach every home that needs it. Homeowners — especially those planning renovations, buying older properties, or raising young children — should take proactive steps to identify lead hazards.
The first step is testing. If your home was built before 1978, any painted surface could contain lead. This includes walls, trim, doors, windows, porches, and even painted cabinets. Disturbing lead paint during renovation without proper precautions can release dangerous dust throughout your home.
A simple paint chip sample can reveal whether lead is present. You collect a small sample from the painted surface, send it to a certified lab, and receive clear results that tell you exactly what you are dealing with.
What to Do If You Find Lead Paint
If testing confirms lead paint in your home, do not panic. Lead paint that is in good condition and not flaking or peeling is generally not an immediate hazard. The key is to prevent it from deteriorating and creating dust.
Options include:
- Encapsulation: Coating the lead paint with a special sealant that prevents chips and dust
- Enclosure: Covering the painted surface with drywall or paneling
- Removal: Hiring a certified lead abatement contractor to safely remove the paint
If you are planning any renovation work, federal law requires contractors to follow EPA lead-safe work practices in pre-1978 homes. Always ask contractors if they are EPA Lead-Safe Certified before hiring them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my home has lead paint?
Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint. The only way to know for certain is to test. You can collect a paint chip sample from any painted surface and send it to a certified lab for analysis. Results typically come back within a few days.
Is lead paint dangerous if it is not peeling?
Lead paint in good condition poses less immediate risk than deteriorating paint. However, any disturbance — such as renovation, friction from opening windows, or normal wear — can release lead dust. Testing helps you identify hazards before they become problems.
Can I remove lead paint myself?
DIY lead paint removal is not recommended. Improper removal can spread lead dust throughout your home, increasing exposure risks. If you find lead paint, consult with a certified lead abatement professional about safe options like encapsulation, enclosure, or professional removal.
For Michigan homeowners in older properties, knowing your home's lead status is the critical first step. The DIY Lead Paint Chip Kit from MycoTest lets you collect a simple paint sample and get certified lab results — giving you the answers you need to protect your family and make informed decisions about your home.
Related reading
- Houston Offers Free Lead Paint Help for Older Homes
- How to Test for Lead Paint Before Renovating Your Older Home
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. MycoTest DIY kits are screening tools. For confirmed contamination, consult a certified environmental professional.
Sources
Cleveland.com — Ohio, Michigan lawmakers push federal funding to remove lead from homes (July 22, 2026)
