The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced an investment of $28,650,000 towards replacing lead service lines in Alaska as part of President Biden's commitment to ensuring safe drinking water for all. The funding, provided through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aims to address the public health risks associated with lead exposure in drinking water, particularly affecting children and families.
EPA Region 10 Administrator Casey Sixkiller emphasized the importance of eliminating lead from drinking water to strengthen public health and build trust in tap water. This initiative aligns with the Biden administration's efforts to advance environmental justice through the Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan and the Get the Lead Out Initiative.
The funding supports the Justice40 Initiative, directing benefits from federal investments to disadvantaged communities disproportionately impacted by lead exposure. It is estimated that this program could replace up to 1.7 million lead pipes nationwide, benefiting numerous families by ensuring access to clean drinking water.
The 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. By addressing the estimated 9 million lead service lines across the country, the initiative aims to reduce exposure to lead and improve public health outcomes.
In addition to the funding announcement, EPA has issued guidance on utilizing resources effectively to minimize lead exposure in drinking water. The agency has also developed outreach materials to assist water systems in educating consumers about lead exposure risks and the importance of identifying and replacing lead service lines.
To access detailed information on the State Revolving Funds in Alaska and track previous funding allocations, interested parties can visit the provided links. The EPA continues to collect data on service line materials in the U.S., with plans to release updated projections later this year.
For further details on state-specific funding allotments in 2024 and insights into EPA's lead Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, readers are encouraged to visit the EPA's Drinking Water website.
