GREENLEAF RESOLUTION FOR TOXIC MOLD STUDY
APPROVED
HARRISBURG –The Senate Health and Welfare Committee today approved a
resolution sponsored by Sen. Stewart J. Greenleaf to encourage the State Health
Department to undertake a study of toxic mold and its health effects.
Greenleaf, who noted that a companion House measure is awaiting action,
said the issue was brought to his attention by a constituent who told of moving
his family from their home because of mold growth and the sickness it caused.
The Greenleaf measure, Senate Resolution 171, would set up a task force
under the Health Department to investigate toxic mold and its potential as a
health hazard. The task force would
be comprised of health officials, medical professionals, mold abatement experts,
consumers, and representatives of industries involved in the issue.
These would include the insurance, real estate, and construction fields.
Among the goals of the study would be to establish guidelines on exposure
limits, identification and assessment standards, and remediation, as well as
determining the health impact. The
task force would advise the General Assembly on its findings.
“The Centers for Disease Control have found possible links between
toxic mold and exposure and such health problems as asthma, skin rashes,
allergies, and negative effects on vital organs,” Greenleaf said.
He noted that molds have been found in schools, commercial buildings, and
homes. “People are concerned, and
there are no standards currently established under federal or state law for mold
and its health effects. This is an
issue that must be addressed,” Greenleaf said.
