NYC Disputes Schools PCBs Claim

NEW YORK (AP) -- The Environmental Protection Agency plans to start inspecting New York City schools for PCB contamination early next month.

The federal government wants the city to replace fluorescent light fixtures that might leak PCBs. The city says they pose no immediate danger.

The city says replacing the fixtures would cost $1 billion and lead to 15,000 teacher layoffs. EPA Regional Commissioner Judith Enck says that figure doesn't make sense.

Schools spokeswoman Natalie Ravitz says the city is working with the Obama administration to find solutions.

(Copyright 2010 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)