To date there are few state and no federal laws preventing the building of schools on or near sources of pollution. The average US public school is almost 50 years old. As of 2005, 40% of America’s schools report needing $36 billion to repair or replace building features such as a roof or plumbing. At the same time, schools show record enrollments and school districts are struggling with budget concerns.

Download CHEJ's just released Safe School Siting Toolkit to get started taking action in your community.

There is currently a critical gap in legislation in the siting of schools on or near contaminated land or sources of pollution. 20 states have no laws that restrict the siting of schools near environmental hazards. Only 10 states have laws that prohibit this practice outright.  This means that districts often select and build on sites where they are unaware of the existence and extent of contamination.

Please contact CHEJ for more information and for additional help in creating safer and healthier communities.