Senator Warner traveled to Hampton Roads today to meet with families who own homes damaged by toxic Chinese drywall, and he brought the chairwoman of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Inez Tenenbaum, with him.

The CPSC is the agency leading the investigation into the drywall issue, which is believed to be responsible for a host of health concerns and structural and safety issues for families who have it in their homes.

Along with area Congressmen Glenn Nye and Bobby Scott, the delegation saw first-hand the damage caused by Chinese drywall on the homes' electrical and wiring systems. They also heard from the homeowners themselves on the affects of the drywall on their respiratory systems.

The neighborhood group shared stories about how they lived in their homes for almost a year before they realized that they all were having similar health and corrosion issues. They soon realized that the distinct rotten egg-like smell in their homes was in fact caused by the Chinese drywall.

Despite moving out of their homes, many of the homeowners said that they are struggling to pay off their mortgages and loans while still caring for their families.

Chairman Tenenbaum told the homeowners that once the scientific studies are complete, the CPSC will develop a national remediation plan and present it to Congress, who must fund the program.

In the meantime, Senator Warner said he would work with local banks and lenders to try to persuade them to be flexible on the homeowners' mortgage issues.

"I could hug you," one of the homeowners told Senator Warner after thanking him for bringing the CPSC chairwoman to Hampton Roads to see and hear their concerns.

"No hugs until we actually get you some help," Senator Warner responded.

UPDATE: Click here to read the Virginian-Pilot's coverage of the visit.  

To view more photos from the visit, click here.