2022-23 Oversight Testimony: Department of Energy and Environment
Children’s Law Center Policy Attorney Makenna Osborn testified before the DC Council’s Committee on Transportation and the Environment about the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), noting the progress the agency has made fighting mold and lead-based paint hazards. Every year, we represent hundreds of DC families in trying to get their landlords to repair poor housing conditions that threaten their child’s health. The most serious cases often involve mold & risk of lead exposure due to water intrusion. That’s why Makenna highlighted the urgent need for DOEE to hire more mold inspectors and asked the Council to reintroduce the Lead Hazard Prevention & Elimination Act which aims to prevent childhood lead exposure, rather than reacting after a child has already been exposed.
It’s Time for Healthier and Safer Housing for all DC Residents
When a child lives in unhealthy housing, they are more likely to end up in the ER because their poor housing conditions trigger health issues like asthma. That’s why Children’s Law Center partners with organizations across the city to advocate for healthier housing so that all DC children have the safe housing they need to live healthy lives.