Rep. John Conyers of Michigan has introduced his long-awaited legislation on mold. The bill, HR 5040, is titled the "United States Toxic Mold Safety and Protection Act of 2002."

The bill mandates EPA to promulgate standards for certification of mold inspectors, mold remediators, mold testing labs, mold risk assessors and industrial hygienists involved with mold remediation planning, according to the American Industrial Hygiene Association.

The proposal addresses the qualifications needed to do mold work, but does not define what one would call "pre-qualified" individuals.

It would also create a national toxic mold hazard insurance program and indoor mold hazard assistance. There are also provisions regarding housing and real property sales.

AIHA doubts the bill will be enacted this year, but is certain that Congress will take it up in 2003.