WASHINGTON — On November 30, 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a proposal to strengthen its Lead and Copper Rule that would require water systems across the country to replace lead service lines within 10 years. In this proposal, EPA also announced additional improvements to protect public health, such as lowering the lead action level and improving sampling protocols utilized by water systems. This proposed action significantly advances President Biden’s commitment to remove every lead service line in America to protect children and vulnerable populations from the negative impacts of lead in drinking water, particularly those living in disadvantaged communities.
Here’s what leaders and advocates across the country are saying:
Members of Congress
Senators Tammy Duckworth (IL) and Cory Booker (NJ): “We applaud the Biden Administration for continuing to prioritize the health of our families by working to strengthen the Lead and Copper Rule. Setting this ambitious goal to remove the vast majority of our nation’s lead pipes within 10 years is a bold action that will help save our children’s future. With no safe level of lead for a child to ingest, we must take action to ensure lead regulations are as strong as possible. All too often lead poisoning disproportionately affects underserved, underfunded communities, and communities of color. With this improved rule—along with historic investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—we can make a lead-free future a reality for all, no matter the color or their skin or their zip code.”
Senator Chuck Schumer (NY): “I’ve long fought for this. And thanks to the Infrastructure Law and the American Rescue Plan we passed: Lead pipes are going to be removed in cities throughout the country!”
Senator Ed Markey (MA): “I am hopeful that [EPA’s] lead rule will finally get…
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