New Law Requires Landlord/Tenant Dialogue for Elevated Radon Levels

July 13, 2011 - PRLog -- Last week, Governor Quinn signed  an amendment to the Radon Awareness Act which starts a dialogue between tenant and landlord if elevated levels of radon are measured  in the rental property. This law protects over 1.4 million Illinois renters (30% of the population) from the first leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers through awareness and prevention education.

“As the leading sponsors for this new legislation, the American Lung Association in Illinois has worked closely with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) to inform the public about the dangers of radon,” explains Harold Wimmer, President & CEO of the American Lung Association in Illinois.  “Due to the synergistic effects between radon and smoking, we are encouraged by this step toward preventing lung disease and cancer.”

Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of the naturally-occurring uranium found in soil, rock and water throughout the U.S. and the world.  Inside the home, regardless of whether it is an old or new construction, radon can accumulate to unsafe levels and result in lung cancer.  

"For the past 20 years, IEMA has been working to increase public awareness of radon," said Jonathon Monken, Director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency.  "This new law will aid these efforts by ensuring that renters are informed if high levels of radon have been found in their homes."

In Illinois, over 35% of homes have radon levels above the level of concern. A relatively simple and inexpensive test for radon is available for individuals to test their residence.  High levels can be remediated with affordable techniques by IEMA licensed radon mitigation contractors.

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The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health & preventing lung disease. Through research, education & advocacy, the American Lung Association is “Fighting for Air”.