The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a final rule requiring the replacement of lead pipes within ten years. This initiative, part of the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), mandates drinking water systems nationwide to identify and replace lead pipes, conduct more rigorous testing, and improve community communication about lead risks in drinking water.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan stated, “We’ve known for decades that lead exposure has serious long-term impacts for children’s health. And yet, millions of lead service lines are still delivering drinking water to homes.” He emphasized President Biden's commitment to resolving this public health issue.
Alongside these regulations, $44 million in funding has been allocated to New Jersey through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The funds will support projects related to lead pipe replacement and inventory, with 49% directed towards disadvantaged communities as grants or principal forgiveness.
Manish Bapna from NRDC remarked on the new rule's significance: “The EPA’s new lead rule will begin to reverse the massive public health disaster of lead-contaminated tap water that has affected generations of our children.”
EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia highlighted that communities most affected by lead are often those facing multiple challenges. She noted that this rule requires prioritizing populations disproportionately impacted by lead.
Governor Murphy expressed gratitude for federal support in replacing all lead pipes in New Jersey over the next decade. Shawn M. LaTourette, New Jersey's Commissioner of Environmental Protection, also praised the administration's efforts: "New Jersey applauds the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to protecting the health of our kids and communities."
Lead is recognized as a potent neurotoxin with no safe exposure level, particularly harmful to children. The LCRI aims to protect millions from its effects while creating jobs through infrastructure investments.
Communities like Milwaukee and Detroit have already begun replacing their lead pipes using federal funding. These efforts align with broader national goals underpinned by scientific evidence about the dangers of lead exposure.
For further details on these initiatives and resources available for compliance, visit EPA’s official website.
