Senator Scott Statement on HUD Carbon Monoxide Announcement

Charleston, SC – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) released the statement below following the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) announcement this morning that $5 million will be available for the purchase of carbon monoxide detectors in public housing units. HUD’s full announcement is also below.

Senator Scott said, ““Today’s announcement that HUD is providing significant resources for carbon monoxide detectors in public housing is great news. After talking with Secretary Carson and his team over the past few months, I am excited to see these concrete steps being taken to ensure the safety of families across South Carolina and the nation. My team and I will continue to work with HUD regarding any additional steps that need to be taken on this critical issue.” 

Text of HUD Announcement: 

WASHINGTON – U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Ben Carson today announced $5 million will be made available for the purchase and installation of carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in public housing units where they are necessary. Provided through HUD’s Emergency Safety and Security Program, these funds represent the first time HUD is targeting grants specifically for the purchase and installation of carbon monoxide detectors.

The funding availability comes a month after HUD announced its intention to make optional CO detectors mandatory and sent a notice to all public housing authorities and private owners of HUD-subsidized housing reminding and encouraging them to install working CO detectors in their properties. HUD has been working with Congressional leaders on the Senate Banking Committee on legislation that will require CO detectors in HUD-assisted housing units that need them. Read more about HUD’s efforts to protect residents from carbon monoxide. 

“Carbon monoxide poisoning presents a risk to families living in public housing,” said Secretary Carson. “This funding will allow more public housing authorities to purchase and install these lifesaving detectors.”  

Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of fuel-fired combustion appliances, such as furnaces and water heaters. If not properly vented, this undetectable gas can be dangerous and even deadly. In March, HUD’s Real Estate Assessment Center (REAC) issued a notice to all HUD and HUD-contracted inspectors requiring them to collect data to determine the prevalence of CO detection systems in HUD-assisted properties subject to its Uniform Physical Condition Standards. 

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