Michael S. Regan 16th Administrator, United States Environmental Protection Agency | Official Website
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant investment of $30,066,000 from President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda to assist Iowa in identifying and replacing lead service lines, ultimately protecting public health and ensuring safe drinking water. EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the importance of this 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.”
EPA Region 7 Administrator Meghan A. McCollister also highlighted the critical nature of this funding, particularly for the well-being of young children who are most vulnerable to health issues caused by lead exposure. McCollister expressed that this historic funding for lead service line replacement is a significant step towards a healthier future for communities in the Heartland and for generations to come.
President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law plays a pivotal role in this endeavor by allocating a historic $15 billion to identify and replace lead service lines. The law specifically mandates that a significant portion of these funds must be provided as grants and forgivable loans to disadvantaged communities, ensuring equitable access to safe drinking water for all.
The EPA projects a national total of 9 million lead service lines across the country, prompting the need for immediate action to reduce exposure to lead in drinking water. The funding announced for Iowa will specifically target lead service line identification and replacement, aligning with the administration’s commitment to environmental justice and public health protection nationwide.
In addition to the financial assistance provided, EPA is releasing new guidance for states on effectively reducing lead exposure in drinking water and developing outreach materials to educate water systems and customers on lead exposure risks and service line ownership.
This latest round of funding is a testament to President Biden’s dedication to replacing every lead pipe in the nation, safeguarding public health, and delivering safe drinking water to communities across the country. To learn more about this initiative and other EPA projects transforming communities, visit the EPA’s Investing in America’s Water Infrastructure Story Map and explore the State Revolving Funds Public Portal.
