Legislation sponsored by Representative Russ Diamond, allowing previous property owners access to radon data from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), passed the Pennsylvania House with a 176-27 vote. Current restrictions prevent the DEP from sharing this information. Diamond’s bill proposes that prior homeowners should access the data if they owned the property during its collection.
Diamond voiced urgency over radon exposure in Pennsylvania, remarking, “Pennsylvania ranks among the worst states in the country for radon levels, which exposes many families in the Commonwealth to harmful, radioactive particles.” He added, “Pennsylvanians concerned about radon on their property can seek testing information from DEP; however, there are currently limitations on how that data can be shared. My bill would peel back some of those limitations, so previous property owners can access DEP’s data.”
Diamond’s initiative was motivated, in part, by a constituent’s struggle with undiagnosed health issues. He stated, “The woman’s doctor asked if she had ever lived in a property with radon. DEP wouldn’t tell her about her former home because she didn’t live at that property anymore. This is unnecessary red tape.”
Diamond expressed gratitude for the bill’s substantial support in the House, expressing hopes for a swift Senate review. “By working together on this issue, we can ensure our constituents have better access to information concerning potential radon exposure, which can impact their health and overall wellbeing,” he said.
House Bill 448 now awaits Senate consideration. Inquiries regarding the legislation can be directed to Diamond’s office at 717-277-2101.
