The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced over $28 million in funding from President Biden's Investing in America agenda to help Connecticut identify and replace lead service lines, aiming to prevent exposure to lead in drinking water. The funding is part of a larger effort to replace every lead pipe in the nation, safeguarding public health and ensuring safe drinking water.

"EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized, "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 Regional Administrator David W. Cash echoed the sentiment, stating, "Our goal is simple, yet essential: to assure that everyone has clean, safe drinking water. That's why identifying and replacing lead service lines is crucial; it can protect our communities, especially the most vulnerable, from lead exposure."

Connecticut officials and lawmakers also expressed their appreciation for the funding. Senator Richard Blumenthal highlighted the importance of the investment, noting, "This $3 billion is a major step toward preventing lead contamination in our drinking water."

Senator Chris Murphy emphasized the significance of the federal grant, stating, "No one in our state should have to think twice before drinking their own tap water."

Governor Ned Lamont underscored the necessity of replacing lead service lines, recognizing that they are a significant source of lead in drinking water in Connecticut. He stated, "The lead service lines that connect the home to the water main are typically the most significant source of lead in drinking water, and we estimate that there are thousands of lead service lines in Connecticut that need to be replaced."

The Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner, Manisha Juthani, MD, emphasized the health risks associated with lead exposure, stating, "Eliminating lead in our homes and drinking water is a top priority for DPH."

The funding provided through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will enable Connecticut to make crucial advancements in ensuring clean and safe drinking water for all residents, with a focus on marginalized communities disproportionately affected by lead exposure. The investment aligns with President Biden's commitment to environmental justice and marks a significant milestone in the nation's efforts to address lead contamination in drinking water.