Paint Makers on Trial in Lead Poisoning Case
Nearly 25 years after lead paint was banned in the United States, eight companies go on trial in Providence in the first attempt by a state to hold manufacturers accountable for lead poisoning in children.
Other states are watching the potentially multimillion-dollar case closely and may bring lawsuits of their own if Rhode Island prevails.
The state must first prove that lead paint makers created a public health hazard. If it wins, the case will move to another phase that will decide if the paint companies should pay millions in damages.
Lead paint was banned nationally in 1978, after studies showed it can cause neurological damage and even death in children.
The paint companies deny they are directly responsible for the chipping and flaking of lead paint. They argue that landlords should be held responsible for allowing the properties to deteriorate.
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