Maryland Revokes Over 1,400 Lead Inspection Certificates Following Elevated Lead Levels in Children

More than 1,400 lead inspection certificates have been invalidated in Maryland following the detection of elevated lead levels in three children. This significant action necessitates the reinspection of rental properties occupied by tenants, as the Maryland Department of the Environment cited failures by inspectors to adhere to established work practice standards. Attorney General Anthony G. Brown has filed a complaint in Baltimore City Circuit Court against Green Environmental, LLC, and its owner, Rodney Bryan Barkley. The lawsuit alleges numerous violations regarding lead paint inspection practices, including the improper use of a lead detection device that … Read more

Concerns Rise as Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas Barely Passes Health Inspection, Legal Expert Urges Action

In a troubling revelation, Spencer Aronfeld, an attorney specializing in litigating against cruise lines, has drawn significant attention to the subpar conditions aboard the Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas. During a recent inspection by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the vessel was found to be just barely meeting health and safety standards. Aronfeld, who frequently shares insights on maritime law on his TikTok channel under the username @cruiseshiplawyer, highlighted critical health violations found during the CDC’s routine inspection. Notably, the report indicated that the cruise ship stored raw eggs and raw hamburgers improperly, … Read more

Texas Ushers in Major New Laws in 2025: Car Inspection Repeals, Tax Relief Measures, and Enhanced Data Privacy

AUSTIN, Texas – With the dawn of 2025, Texans are set to experience significant legislative changes that will affect many aspects of daily life, from vehicle requirements to property taxes and judicial reforms. As the new legislations take effect on January 1, they reflect initiatives passed during the 2024 legislative session, among earlier efforts seeking to refine state regulations and enhance residents’ quality of life. One notable change arriving in 2025 is the cessation of mandatory car safety inspections for non-commercial vehicles, a move encapsulated by House Bill 3297. Instead of an annual inspection, vehicle … Read more

State Officials Increase Enforcement of Lead Inspection Laws Amid Growing Concerns Over Child Safety

In response to increasing concerns over lead exposure in older buildings, Rhode Island is stepping up enforcement of lead inspection laws for rental properties, while landlords of short-term rentals remain exempt. This enforcement is part of a broader state strategy to link property registration requirements with mandatory lead checks. Many real estate professionals and property owners are currently grappling with how to comply with these new regulations, which were implemented in September. The laws require that all landlords not only register their rental properties but also conduct lead inspections if their buildings were constructed with … Read more