Document wgOK7ML2meykoJ8gj7p66M6LV

(Suggested letter) Dor Congressman (or Senator) : The Sonet* labor and Public Welfare Committee it now considering several legislative proposals dealing with the problem of eliminating the hazard of lead poisoning related to the nroducts of our industry. Years ago, the paint industry made products containing quantities of lead pigments and compounds which,if ingested, especially by children, could produce lead ooitoning with its attendant hazardous effects. These products have not been monu- fdetvred or sold by our industry for use on interior surfaces for more than 30 years due to the advent of safer, mote economical, non-toxic pigments and ingredients. The problem stems from the fact that many layers of the older-type paints are found in substandard, poorly-maintained urban dwellings, which children have access to when the interior condition is such that pealing and flaking occurs. The matter is further compounded by the high incidence of a condition known as "pica", a compulsion to eat non-food materials such as dirt, wood, paint chips and plaster, which occurs frequently among the children inhabiting these dwellings. Modem interior points ate safe to use. Any paint product con taining mote than 1% lead is clearly labeled to prevent its use on interior surfaces of dwell ings inhabited by children . There are exterior paint products containing lead which are essential for the maintenance end nreservation of residential as well as commercial structures. These products are similarly 'abated and to restrict their use would be a serious detriment to the maintenance of property in this country. Our industry has long supported and provided leadership for action designed to eliminate the threat of lead poisoning to children. Such legislation, to be effective should be directed toward the basic problem; namely, the removal of old paint containing more than 1% lead from exposed interior surfaces of dwellings, especially those inhabited by children. To direct legislation 0007-SWP-000005712 (Suggested Uttar) Poge 2.. . toward the elimination of modam-day paints on axtarior surfaces completely ignoras the norura of tha probiam whila destroying o basic and essential product for property maintananca. Your understanding and support, if such legislation reaches the floor of Congress, is sincerely requested. If you have any questions on this subject, please foal free to write or coll me or if more convenient, Mr. Robert A. Roland, Executive Vice Resident, National Point, Varnish and Lacquer Association, Washington, D. C. Sincerely, 0007-SWP-000005713 SUGGESTED TELEGRAM Dear Sanetor or Congressmen : Legislation before the Senate Committee on labor and tabllc Welfare may toon roach the floor of Congress for action. H. R. 19172, Leod-Rased taint Elimination Act of 1970 and S. 3216, Load taint Poisoning frevention Act, or amended versions thereof, ore presently being considered. We support the objectives of this legislation, however, we urge that it be restricted to the real cause of lead poisoning; namely, old paint containing more than 1% lead, generally found in poorly-maintained or substandvd housing. Modern interior paints are safe and properly labeled. Exterior paints are properly labeled and net related to this problem. Restrictions on exterior paint products will seriously affect maintenance of dwellings and structures and in no way assist us in eliminating the basic problem. Request your consideration and support for proposals recognizing this distinction. 0007 -SWP-000005714 N11430.01