Environmental Protection Agency calls for elimination of lead pipes within a decade

The U.S. government on Tuesday finalized a landmark rule that will require water utilities to replace virtually all of the nation’s lead pipes within 10 years, addressing a serious threat that is especially dangerous for infants and children.

The White House has made eliminating all lead pipes within 10 years a centerpiece of its plan to address racial disparities and environmental problems following water contamination crises in recent years, starting with Newark (New Jersey) to Flint (Michigan).

“We have known for decades that lead exposure has serious long-term consequences for children’s health. And yet, millions of lead service lines continue to supply drinking water to homes,” said Agency Administrator Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Michael S. Regan. “President (Joe) Biden is ending this generational public health problem.”

Biden is scheduled to visit Wisconsin to promote the new policy, seen as very popular in industrial Midwestern states that are expected to play a major role in deciding next month’s presidential election.

Vice President Kamala Harris, Democratic candidate for the November elections, has also called for replacing lead pipes, an issue especially important for disadvantaged communities.

The rule, initially proposed by the EPA in 2023, imposes the strictest limits on lead in drinking water since federal standards were first established decades ago and requires utilities to review their systems and replace them in the next 10 years.

The Infrastructure Act of 2021, with bipartisan support, allocated $50 billion to modernize the nation’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, including $15 billion over five years to replace lead pipes.

Lead poisoning can cause irreversible damage to the nervous system and brain, and poses a specific risk to infants and children. The pipes that bring water to homes are believed to be one of the main sources of lead exposure.

Connect with the Voice of America! Subscribe to our channels YouTube, WhatsApp and to the newsletter. Turn on notifications and follow us on Facebook, x and instagram.