Chip and Joanna Gaines Pay Fine Over Lead Paint Violations
HGTV's "Fixer Upper" stars Chip and Joanna Gaines reached a settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding allegations that they violated rules for the safe handling of lead paint during home renovations. The couple agreed to pay a civil fine of $40,000 and to inform their audience about the dangers of lead-based paint. Under the agreement, they also will take steps to ensure that their home renovation company, Magnolia Homes, is in compliance with EPA regulations going forward. Magnolia Homes also will spend $160,000 in Waco, Texas, to decrease lead-based paint hazards in homes where residents are at high risk for exposure to dust from such paint, the EPA said. "Through this settlement, Magnolia is putting in place safeguards to ensure the safety of its renovation work and making meaningful contributions toward the protection of children and vulnerable communities from exposure to lead-based paint," said Susan Bodine, assistant administrator in the EPA's Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance.