UTICA – State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-I-C-Rome, announced today that he has helped to secure a Senate appropriation of $155,000 for the City of Utica that will help the city address childhood lead poisoning. 
The funding is directed at targeted municipalities in counties currently participating in the state Department of Health’s primary prevention of childhood lead poisoning program through a strengthened partnership with code enforcement agencies in these municipalities. 
Experts say children can be exposed to lead through a variety of sources, including contaminated soil or water, imported toys, pottery or cosmetics, and household paint manufactured before 1978, according to the Lead-Free Mohawk Valley Coalition. Long-term exposure to lead can lead to developmental delays, learning difficulties and behavioral issues. 
In recent years, Oneida County has had one of the highest levels of childhood lead poisoning in New York State, according to the coalition.  
“Lead poisoning can have very serious effects on children,” said Sen. Griffo. “This funding will help the City of Utica to address this issue and will hopefully cut down on the number of cases of children with lead poisoning.”
“Combatting lead poisoning for children in our community is a worthy investment and I commend Senator Griffo for his proactive leadership on this important issue,” said Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri.