Toxic mold, beware: The law is watching

10/10/01

By NORA K. WALLACE

NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

At one time or another, everyone has dealt with mold, the multicolored fungi that grow in damp areas of basements, laundries and bathrooms. Most are safe, but a new term has entered the lexicon -- "toxic mold" -- and concerns are being raised about the potential dangers of exposure to too much of the wrong types of mold.

A new law requires a comprehensive study into the health problems related to toxic mold. Authored by Assemblywoman Hannah-Beth Jackson, D-Santa Barbara and signed on Sunday by Gov. Gray Davis, the law requires the California Research Bureau to conduct a study on fungal contamination in indoor environments, and report the findings to the Department of Health Services and the Legislature on Jan. 1, 2003. Mold -- there are an estimated 300,000 types -- is found indoors and outdoors. Some can produce mycotoxins, which are natural compounds that can hurt humans, including causing serious respiratory problems.

"The problem of toxic mold in residences, schools and offices has generated significant public concern among the scientific and public health communities around the world," Ms. Jackson said.

The legislation would help environmental health experts with practical guidelines for preventing and getting rid of fungal contamination, according to a legislative analysis.

The Santa Barbara County Rental Property Association was one of the prime backers of the bill. Its 850 members were concerned about owners being unfairly penalized for mold contamination.

"Hannah-Beth Jackson said, 'Let's do a study, get measures in place before we start penalizing, or requiring remedial work to be done,' '' said Joan Brooks, executive director of the nonprofit landlords organization. "We're very happy to be in support of the idea of measures and parameters being determined and established before penalties are meted out."

Acknowledging that mold has been a factor in housing for hundreds of years, Ms. Brooks added, "Just recently it's becoming a huge issue. Certainly it must be dealt with. Anything that is a threat to people's health or safety must be eradicated."

The group wasn't alone in its support. The bill was also backed by the Consumer Attorneys of California and the American Lung Association, among others. There was no opposition on file.

A legislative analysis indicated the bill would bring only minimal additional costs to the government.

In addition to signing Ms. Jackson's bill, the governor signed SB 732, by Sen. Deborah Ortiz, D-Sacramento. It creates the Toxic Mold Protection Act, which sets the toughest toxic mold standards in the nation.

"I am very proud that once again -- when it comes to the environment -- California is leading the way and setting an example for others to follow," Gov. Davis said in a statement. "Taken together, these bills represent some of the toughest environmental health laws anywhere in America."