Starting in April, new federal lead laws go into effect across the country. Anyone who works on a pre-1978 building will have to be certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to take out lead paint.

The Coalition to Prevent Lead Poisoning said 300 children were poisoned by lead in Monroe County last year. That is one of the many reasons they are standing behind the new regulations.

“This is a federal mandate, so it is nationwide," said Elizabeth McDade, program coordinator with the Coalition to Prevent Lead Poisoning.

The EPA has new rules for lead safe remodeling dubbed the "Renovation, Repair and Painting" Certification Program (RRP).

"We're talking not only contractors, but electricians, plumbers, property managers and anyone who is getting paid, even through rent,” she said. “If you are a landlord, needs to get this certification."

McDade said even if you have previous lead safe work practices, you need to go through new or updated training.

"The fees the EPA is going to be levying are quite significant, depending on the size of the firm,” said McDade. "The fines could be as much as $37,000 a day."

Limited free-of-charge classes are being offered through Monroe County and other agencies. Deadline for certification is April 22.

"If you are disturbing more than six square feet on an interior or 20 square feet on an exterior of a painted surface on a pre-1978 structure where children would be present, you need to be RRP Certified,” said McDade.

If you live in Monroe County and would like to have a free visual lead inspection done on your home, you can call 585-428-LEAD.

The Coalition to Prevent Lead Poisoning