New Carrollton, MD – According to the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, the state agency announced the launch of its new Lead Hazard Reduction Grant Program on March 12, 2026. Supported by $4 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the initiative aims to create safer living environments and safeguard the health of Maryland families by addressing pervasive lead hazards in older homes.
The program provides comprehensive services, including lead hazard assessments, full remediation efforts, and final clearance testing to ensure that properties comply with stringent federal and state lead safety standards. This targeted approach focuses on homes constructed before 1978, a period when lead-based paint was commonly used in residential construction. Such materials continue to pose significant risks, particularly to young children and vulnerable populations who may inadvertently ingest or inhale lead particles, leading to developmental issues and other long-term health complications.
“This new initiative will bring immediate and long-term health benefits to Maryland communities acutely impacted by lead hazards,” said Secretary Jake Day. “This is a crucial step in the Department’s ongoing commitment to ensuring healthy homes for all Marylanders.”
With the federal investment, the program plans to fund lead abatement in over 150 homes across Maryland‘s 23 counties. This statistical target underscores the scale of the effort, directly reducing the incidence of lead poisoning and its associated health risks. For instance, in disinvested communities where lead exposure has been historically prevalent, the initiative will leverage state health data to prioritize services, ensuring that the most affected areas receive prompt attention.
Managed by the Department’s Whole Home Energy and Repairs team, the Lead Hazard Reduction Grant Program expands access to quality housing by addressing unique needs in underserved neighborhoods. This team works tirelessly to integrate home repairs with broader wellness goals, recognizing that safe housing is foundational to community well-being.
The Department will collaborate closely with key partners to maximize the program’s impact. These include the Maryland Department of Health, which provides expertise on health outcomes related to lead exposure; the Maryland Department of the Environment, offering regulatory guidance on safe abatement practices; and various local governments, which help identify high-need areas. This coordinated effort ensures a seamless delivery of services.
Furthermore, the new grant program integrates with existing state initiatives to create a more holistic approach to home health. For example, it builds upon the state-funded Lead Hazard Reduction Grant and Loan Programs, as well as the Healthy Homes for Healthy Kids (HH4K) program. These complementary efforts amplify resources, allowing for more comprehensive interventions that not only remove lead but also enhance overall home safety and energy efficiency.
Eligible homeowners and landlords throughout Maryland are encouraged to apply for these vital services. The program’s guidelines emphasize accessibility, aiming to reach those who might otherwise lack the means to address lead issues independently. By focusing on prevention and remediation, the initiative addresses a critical public health challenge that has lingered for decades.
Lead poisoning remains a preventable yet persistent threat in older housing stock, with symptoms ranging from subtle developmental delays in children to chronic health problems in adults. The $4 million infusion represents a proactive investment in public welfare, aligning with broader state goals to foster equitable and resilient communities. As Maryland continues to tackle environmental and health disparities, programs like this demonstrate a commitment to protecting future generations from avoidable risks. For more information, visit Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development.