The Biden-Harris Administration has implemented new regulations and announced funding aimed at reducing lead in drinking water across the United States. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a final rule mandating that drinking water systems identify and replace lead pipes within ten years. This regulation, known as the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), includes stricter testing requirements and lower thresholds for action on lead presence in drinking water.
In addition to regulatory changes, the EPA is providing $67,510,000 in infrastructure funding to Georgia through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. These funds are intended for lead pipe replacement projects and must allocate 49% of the total to disadvantaged communities either as grants or principal forgiveness. Furthermore, $35 million is available through competitive grant funding to further reduce lead exposure in drinking water.
The administration estimates that around nine million homes still use legacy lead pipes, primarily affecting low-income areas and communities of color. The LCRI aims to address these disparities by promoting environmental justice.
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 ending this public health issue with new regulations and investments.
Acting Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle of EPA’s Region 4 remarked on the significance of these actions for Southeastern states: “Our new lead rule and the funding that it provides are crucial to address a long-standing problem...”
Scientific research underscores that there is no safe level of lead exposure, particularly harmful to children as it affects mental development among other issues. The Centers for Disease Control highlight there is no antidote once someone is affected by lead exposure.
Several cities have already begun efforts aligned with federal goals:
- Milwaukee Water Works plans to replace all remaining pipes within ten years.
- Detroit Water and Sewerage Department replaced nearly 10,000 lines since 2018.
- Cincinnati passed an ordinance supporting complete removal of such pipes.
- Erie Water Works aims at removing 7,200 goosenecks by 2027.
The EPA estimates significant health benefits from these improvements, including protection against low birth weight in infants and prevention of attention disorders in children.
For more information about these initiatives or details about accessing available resources visit the relevant webpage provided by EPA.
