California is Behind in Lead Testing for Children
California is Behind in Lead Testing for Children

A new study from California’s Department of Public Health revealed that one-third of California children ages 1-2  at risk for lead poisoning did not receive lead testing. There are 160,000 toddlers who needed testing, as required by state and federal law, who did not receive it.

Which Children Require Lead Testing?

The state’s Department of Public Health oversees is in charge of the Lead Poisoning and Prevention Program. The children considered most at risk for lead poisoning in California are those on Medi-Cal and other public assistance program. Regulations require these children be test at 12 and 24 months. In 2013, roughly 469,000 children should have been tested. However, a third of those children did not receive the testing. Moreover, nearly all California counties failed to meet the lead testing requirement. Only one county—San Francisco—actually tested more children than required.

Dangers of Lead Poisoning

Lead in the bloodstream can lead to brain damage and developmental disabilities in children. There is no safe level of lead in the body, according to the CDC. Children in lower-income families are more likely to have exposure to old homes with lead paint. They are also more likely to live in areas where there is lead contamination of the soil or water.

“Our state must do a better job of providing lead testing for at-risk children,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.

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