HUD Publishes Notice on Implementation of Reduced Elevated Blood Lead Levels

By: Steven Molinari, Policy Analyst

March 5, 2026 — On February 27, HUD published the notice titled “Implementation of the Reduced Elevated Blood Lead Level Triggering Response in Certain Assisted Target Housing,” which modifies the elevated blood lead level (EBLL) threshold for children under six years old.

The notice provides general guidance specifically for Owners of certain assisted target housing and HUD staff when notified by authorized health professionals of high EBLL counts for young children in a housing unit. According to the notice, the EBLL threshold, which is used to monitor safety of blood lead levels in children, has been changed from 5 to 3.5 micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood (µg/dL) for children under six years old.

In 2024, NAHRO submitted comments on 90 FR 5975 agreeing with the modified threshold, noting that the decision is consistent CDC recommendations.

To view the full notice, see here.