Lead paint is a recognized health hazard, particularly in children, with long-term exposure leading to development problems, including impaired intellectual development. Lead paint has been banned from use in residential properties since 1978. It is however estimated that many homes in California built before this time may still contain lead paint. California, as a result, is estimated to still have a significant amount of children who are poisoned by lead each year. In recent years, substantial progress has been made by the state government in removing lead paint in California. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has helped to remove more than 17 million square feet of lead paint from California homes since 2000.