This post is a great call for industry leaders to come together and collectively seek out solutions that benefit all concerned.
Alone, we have little strength, together will make an impact.

I think one thing we need to come to grips with is the law is going to be enacted as is, for now. There will be challenges, heated debates, lack enforcement, misunderstandings, resistance from contractors and mixed consumer reactions.

The first think that must be remembered in all this is the intent to protect all from lead poisoning.
Second, contractors need to make sure they abide by the rules even if it makes no sense to them. If you want to change them get involved politically.
Third, we have to use every conceivable way to inform consumers without depending on the epa to do it.
Fourth we must insist that all local building officials participate in the enforcement of the law.
Fifth we need to have the courage to to warn contractors who don’t follow the rule that they are exposing the consumer to illegal work that may result in serious consequences for the homeowner.
Sixth we must be willing to report on the contractors who do illegal work and hurt the reputation of our industry. Including the local fireman and teachers who moonlight running illegal contracting businesses.
This sixth reason brings out the heebie jeebies in a lot of people. However, the majority of complaints from consumers come from jobs done by unprofessional or illegal contractors. It is time to turn the tide, hard or not, and begin an industry wide revamping not just a few here and a few there. Maybe some one can come up with an acceptable way to warn illegal contractors that they will be reported if they don’t choose the professional route. The sad fact is this, the underground service industry is taking millions of dollars away from the legal companies while creating the majority of the complaints and industry problems. This is wrong and unfair to those who play by the rules and pay the freight.
Good job Paul.

mark the coach