The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a new rule requiring drinking water systems nationwide to identify and replace lead pipes within ten years. This initiative is part of the administration's goal to eliminate all lead pipes in the United States within a decade, ensuring access to clean drinking water for all communities.
In conjunction with these regulatory changes, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has allocated $37,452,000 in funding for Oregon through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This funding will be directed towards drinking water infrastructure projects, specifically targeting lead pipe replacement and inventory efforts. Notably, 49% of this funding is designated for disadvantaged communities as grants or principal forgiveness that do not require repayment.
Additionally, the EPA has announced $35 million in competitive grant funding aimed at reducing lead levels in drinking water. Communities can apply directly for these grants through the program's website. The agency has also developed an online resource detailing available federal funding sources to support lead pipe replacement initiatives.
EPA Region 10 Administrator Casey Sixkiller emphasized the importance of addressing lead exposure risks: “We know no amount of lead is safe to consume. And when lead service lines are present, they pose the greatest risk of lead exposure in drinking water.” He highlighted that the historic funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and new protective measures offer essential resources to ensure safe drinking water for future generations.
The Lead and Copper Rule Improvements introduce more stringent testing requirements and lower action thresholds for addressing lead in drinking water. These improvements aim to enhance community communication about lead risks and plans for replacing affected pipes.
The EPA estimates that annually, after implementing these improvements, up to 900,000 infants could be protected from low birthweight issues; Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder could be prevented in up to 2,600 children; premature deaths from heart disease could be reduced by up to 1,500 cases; and up to 200,000 IQ points lost in children could be prevented.
Investments made under this initiative are expected not only to improve public health but also create jobs locally while reinforcing safe drinking water infrastructure vital for economic growth.
For further details on the final rule and related resources, interested parties can visit the EPA's dedicated webpage.
