The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant funding of $184,273,000 from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to aid Ohio in identifying and replacing lead service lines, ultimately safeguarding the public from exposure to lead in drinking water. The initiative is part of President Biden’s commitment to replace every lead pipe in the nation to ensure the delivery of safe drinking water.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the urgency of removing lead pipes, 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 achieving this goal and advancing the Administration’s commitment to environmental justice.
Representative Marcy Kaptur highlighted the importance of this funding for Ohio, stating, “I am pleased to see the State of Ohio receive this much needed infusion of $184 Million funding to help ensure that all Ohioans have access to clean, healthy, and safe drinking water.” Additionally, Representative Shontel Brown commended the Biden-Harris Administration for the investment in environmental justice and public health through lead pipe replacement.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted expressed their commitment to protecting Ohio’s children from lead exposure, with Ohio EPA Director Anne Vogel welcoming the announcement of $186 million for lead service line replacement in the state. The funding is expected to benefit communities across Ohio and contribute to the ongoing efforts of public water systems in the state.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, championed by President Biden, allocates a historic $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 address the long-standing issue of lead exposure, which disproportionately affects communities of color and low-income families.
The funding announced by EPA will assist every state and territory in funding projects to remove lead pipes and reduce exposure to lead from drinking water. The allocation of funds is based on need, with states with more projected lead service lines receiving proportionally more funding. EPA’s efforts also include providing guidance to states on effectively reducing lead exposure in drinking water and educating the public on the health impacts of lead exposure.
The EPA’s investment in lead pipe replacement in Ohio is a significant step towards ensuring clean and safe drinking water for all residents. This funding not only addresses immediate health concerns but also contributes to the long-term goal of eliminating lead exposure in communities across the state.
