The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a final rule under the Biden-Harris administration requiring drinking water systems nationwide to identify and replace lead pipes within ten years. The Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) also call for stricter testing of drinking water and a lower threshold for communities to act on lead contamination.
The new regulations aim to enhance communication so families are better informed about the risks of lead in their drinking water, the location of lead pipes, and replacement plans. This initiative is part of President Biden's commitment to eliminate every lead pipe in the country within a decade, ensuring access to clean water for all communities.
Additionally, the EPA has allocated $37.4 million in new funding for Iowa through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This funding will support lead pipe replacement and inventory projects, with nearly half designated as grants or principal forgiveness for disadvantaged communities. An additional $35 million in competitive grant funding is available for reducing lead in drinking water.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue: “We’ve known for decades that lead exposure has serious long-term impacts for children’s health... With the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements and historic investments in lead pipe replacement, the Biden-Harris administration is fulfilling its commitment that no community... should have to worry about lead-contaminated water in their homes.”
Region 7 Administrator Meghan A. McCollister stated, “For generations, lead in our water has jeopardized the health of our children and most vulnerable Americans... now is the time to get the lead out.”
Lead exposure poses significant health risks, particularly to children, causing developmental issues and other severe health effects. The LCRI aims to protect millions from these dangers by establishing achievable practices already adopted by several states and cities.
Communities like Milwaukee, Detroit, Erie, Pennsylvania, and Denver are already working towards replacing all remaining lead pipes within EPA's ten-year timeframe with substantial federal support.
The LCRI is expected to bring public health benefits significantly outweighing its costs while creating local jobs through infrastructure improvements.
Further details on the final rule can be found on EPA's website.
