Putting families first

Apparently the Bush EPA is delaying required rules to protect children and construction workers from lead contaminates because of the potential cost to business:

EPA officials emphasize that they are concerned about lead exposure and its effect on children. They also point to an internal study showing that the cost of the regulations — $1.7 billion to $3.1 billion annually — could be an overwhelming burden for the mostly small businesses that renovate buildings.

I've never understood the idea of putting the costs of small business ahead of the potential health and financial burdens small families would have to deal with if nothing is done.

Lead poisoning can lead to birth defects, educational disorders, and lowered IQ in small children. I guess when it comes to protecting the unborn, you can only do so much.