This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.
Government’s reach grows
On Feb. 3 there was an article in the paper telling how contractors remodeling or painting a 1978 or older home would have to comply with Environmental Protection Agency regulations regarding lead paint or face a fine of $37,500 per day. These regulations will add hundreds of dollars to the price of any project, cost contractors hundreds of dollars in fees, lost time and equipment, and add another layer of federal government control in our lives.
It’s time to wake up, folks. These EPA regulations mean you can’t even hire someone to paint your house unless they are EPA-certified. This is a perfect example of why Ron Paul, Matt Shea and many state legislators are saying it’s time to apply the 10th Amendment and put the federal government back under the Constitution.
The EPA is not found in one of the enumerated powers of the federal government and is clearly unconstitutional. The states and we the people need to stop sheepishly submitting like slaves and tell the EPA your regulations and threats don’t apply here.
Steve Dunham
Spokane