The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant investment of $240,899,000 from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to aid Illinois in identifying and replacing lead service lines, ultimately safeguarding residents from lead exposure in drinking water. EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the critical nature of this initiative, stating, “There is no safe level of lead exposure, and the primary source of harmful exposure in drinking water is through lead pipes.”
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker expressed gratitude for the funding, highlighting President Biden's commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable residents in the state. Senator Dick Durbin underscored the importance of federal funding in addressing the threat of lead contamination in underserved communities, emphasizing the significance of prioritizing public health through the replacement of lead service lines.
Various representatives from Illinois, including Sen. Tammy Duckworth and Rep. Jan Schakowsky, also lauded the investment, emphasizing the necessity of ensuring safe and clean drinking water for all residents, regardless of their background. Rep. Mike Quigley commended the EPA and the Biden Administration for taking concrete steps towards achieving universal access to safe drinking water, emphasizing the transformative impact of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
The EPA's funding, made available through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, is part of a broader effort to address lead exposure in disadvantaged communities. EPA Director John J. Kim highlighted the importance of these additional federal funds in supporting the removal of lead service lines and protecting community water supplies.
President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocates $15 billion to identify and replace lead service lines, with a focus on providing grants and forgivable loans to disadvantaged communities. The law aims to remove an estimated 9 million lead service lines nationwide, with a specific focus on reducing lead exposure in drinking water.
The EPA's announcement also includes measures to educate the public on lead exposure risks and support water systems in identifying potential lead service lines in homes. These efforts align with the Administration's commitment to environmental justice and health equity.
The EPA's investment in Illinois marks a significant step towards achieving the goal of replacing every lead pipe in the country, ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water for all communities.
