Those expected to testify at the hearing include representatives from the insurance and home building industries. Congressional staff members were also exploring the possibility of including a scientist with experience in the mold issue and a mold remediation expert.

Staff members noted that the hearing is being scheduled to make members of Congress aware of the mold issue, and also to call for an increase in public education and additional studies. They also wanted to learn whether the “hysteria” surrounding the mold issue has possibly contributed to a slowdown in the construction industry. PHCC announced it plans to attend Thursday’s hearing.

The Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) also notes that it and its Construction Alliance partners, which include the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA), expect to be represented. They will present an overall view in support of federal backstops for catastrophic losses and remediation underwriting, but add a note of caution on the need for developing valid research and the development of fair standards by federal agencies.

Publication date: 07/15/2002