Frequently Asked Questions Maryland's Lead Paint Poisoning Prevention Program Ninety-five percent of the housing units built in Maryland before 1950 contain lead paint. Swallowing or breathing lead can poison children.
Lead poisoning can slow a child's development and cause learning disabilities and behavior problems.
While case findings are lower in the outlying counties, far fewer children are tested as compared to Baltimore City. The hazards associated with lead paint are the same regardless of the location of the property. Maryland's Lead Paint Poisoning Prevention Program is designed to reduce the incidence of childhood lead poisoning, while maintaining the supply of affordable rental housing. The Maryland Department of the Environment has proposed regulations concerning risk reduction treatments, lead paint abatement services, liability relief for property owners and compensation for tenants. Owner-occupied dwellings are not regulated.