LENEXA, KAN. (MAY 2, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced nearly $44 million in funding from President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda to aid Missouri in identifying and replacing lead service lines, aiming to prevent exposure to lead in drinking water. This move is part of the ongoing efforts to protect public health by replacing lead pipes across the nation.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the urgency of the initiative, stating, “The science is clear, there is no safe level of lead exposure, and the primary source of harmful exposure in drinking water is through lead pipes.” This funding, made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is a crucial step towards fulfilling President Biden’s commitment to replacing every lead pipe in the country.

Highlighting the impact on young children, EPA Region 7 Administrator Meghan A. McCollister noted, “We know that young children face the greatest risk for health problems caused by lead exposure.” The funding allocated for lead service line replacement in Missouri is seen as a significant stride towards ensuring a healthier future for communities in the Heartland region.

U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver II (MO-5) commended the investment, acknowledging the importance of clean drinking water for all Americans. Cleaver stated, “Every American deserves the peace of mind in knowing that they and their loved ones have access to safe, clean, and uncontaminated drinking water – but with hundreds of thousands of lead service lines still in use in Missouri, that’s far too often not the case.”

Missouri Department of Natural Resources Director Dru Buntin expressed gratitude for the funds allocated to assist Missouri drinking water systems in their efforts to inventory and replace lead service lines. Buntin highlighted the significance of ensuring customers receive safe drinking water at the tap through these resources.

The funding provided through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law demonstrates a commitment to addressing the issue of lead pipes nationwide. With a focus on disadvantaged communities, this initiative aims to replace up to 1.7 million lead pipes across the country, securing clean drinking water for countless families.