AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) Maine legislators have agreed to a spending deal that includes a $4 million lead abatement program.
The Sun-Journal reports the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee approved the $41.6 million spending measure Monday.
The Maine State Housing Authority will manage the new lead program. Under the measure, the state will assist landlords with removing lead paint from older buildings.
State Democratic Sen. Nate Libby says the program pays a higher share to landlords who try to fix problems with lead before they’re compelled to by law.
Lewiston and Auburn have the highest rate of childhood lead poisoning in the state. According to state records, 325 children age 3 or younger suffered serious lead exposure between 2012 and 2016.
