The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a new rule mandating that drinking water systems nationwide identify and replace lead pipes within ten years. This initiative, known as the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), also includes stricter testing requirements for drinking water and lowers the threshold for community action on lead exposure. The administration aims to replace every lead pipe in the United States within a decade.
In addition to these regulations, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has unveiled $41,912,000 in funding for Tennessee through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This funding is intended to support projects related to lead pipe replacement and inventory. Nearly half of this funding must be allocated as grants or principal forgiveness loans to disadvantaged communities. Furthermore, $35 million in competitive grant funding is available for reducing lead in drinking water.
"President Biden is putting an end to this generational public health problem," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. "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, regardless of race, geography, or wealth, should have to worry about lead-contaminated water in their homes."
Acting Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle of EPA’s Region 4 emphasized the importance of addressing this issue: “Our new lead rule and the funding that it provides are crucial to address a long-standing problem in our Southeastern states of families and children being exposed to lead from the pipes in their homes.”
Lead exposure poses significant health risks, particularly for children. It can harm mental and physical development and cause irreversible brain damage. In adults, it can increase blood pressure, heart disease risk, decrease kidney function, and even cause cancer.
Communities across the country have already started replacing lead pipes. Milwaukee Water Works plans to replace all remaining pipes within ten years with funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Detroit Water and Sewerage Department has replaced nearly 10,000 lines since 2018. Cincinnati's Greater Cincinnati Water Works has replaced over 6,000 lines since 2018 following local ordinances aligned with federal goals.
The LCRI aims to protect millions from lead exposure by preventing low birthweight in infants, ADHD cases in children, premature deaths from heart disease, and IQ loss among children.
For more information about these initiatives or how communities can apply for funding or technical assistance from EPA programs like WaterTA or DWSRFs visit their website.
