The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, the National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association and the Window and Door Manufacturers Association have joined the National Home Builders Association in planning to file a lawsuit against the EPA. The housing industry groups are outraged that the EPA has decided to remove the ‘opt-out’ provision from its Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting rule. Removing the rule doubles the amount of homes that will be subjected to extra costs in order for contractors to take the new mandatory precautions. The group believes that removing the provision without scientific evidence will not only raise costs for homeowners, but force those who really need the protection to seek unqualified remodelers or go without the needed renovations. To see the full press release visit the NAHB site.