It also wants tax credits for landlords who fix lead problems, and more legal clout to go after those who don't. Dr. Simon says the state should withdraw all aid for communities that refuse to provide housing and services to the poor. And it should funnel more resources into improving the lives of poor children by building playgrounds in the city, making schools safer, and improving educational opportunities. Richard H. Godfrey Jr., executive director of the Rhode Island Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation, says the state needs to reverse its legal approach toward the owners of older properties. This is virtually every apartment in South Providence.
People are so afraid of liability.
So afraid of testing. The answer to a hot stove is not to get rid of the stove. Everyone knows there's lead. If the landlord takes reasonable steps, he should be protected. If he's truly negligent, he should be liable.