In a recent RRP training in Southampton, New York a contractor yelled out "how am I going to survive when I have to compete against illegal immigrants and the local fireman contractor working illegally". In another training in Mass a painting contractor told us that he is getting killed in his town going up against local teachers and college kids with under the radar side businesses. In another training in Mass, a contractor says he competes against the whole town fire department on half of his window and siding jobs. 

I received a call today from a nice guy who had a similar mindset to a contractor I spoke with earlier this year. I thought I would republish my post Mr EPA Man and share the views of concerned contractors.

I am ready to leave for my meeting today to fight for the rights of legal contractors in Massachusetts. Maybe this will even help contractors throughout the country.

On 4/22/2010 the EPA Renovate, Repair and Painting Lead Rule goes into effect. There are only 90 days left to complete the application to become registered.

Last Wednesday we had Kachina Contractor Solutions, an EPA Certified Trainer conduct EPA RRP Training for our contractors. The training answered many questions about this new rule.

Recently on the NARI LinkedIn group, professional contractors shared their views on the EPA's enforcement of the Renovate, Repair and Painting Rule. One huge concern  is contractors who comply will have to compete against thousands of illegal contractors who do not.  

Another well intended unfunded mandate is about to turn the residential construction industry up side down. By now, many readers of this blog know of the impending EPA RRP Lead Law effective on 4.22.2010. Needless to say the EPA doesn't have the funding for the appropriate enforcement. There are many comments on the forums, saying the EPA is looking for contractors to report on other illegal contractors. Then they will fine the violator and publicize the offense. How does that sound for an enforcement plan?

The current buzz created by the pending EPA RRP Lead Rule is causing the formation of camps; those who are for it, those who are against it, and those resigned to the fact that they have no choice but compliance.