By Jesus Garcia
08 Oct 2024, 05:00 AM EDT
A new rule mandates more rigorous testing of drinking water and pushes for pipe replacements across the United States to prevent lead consumption.
The new version of the Lead and Copper Rule (LCRI) also improves communication within communities to inform families about the consumption of water potentially contaminated with lead.
Under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act pushed by President Joe Biden, the final rule seeks to replace lead pipes in up to 10 years.
The administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced in a virtual press conference that the Biden Administration’s new program includes $2.6 billion in new funds that will allow cities and states to finance infrastructure improvements.
“There have never been more federal funds available to remove lead pipes,” EPA head Michael S. Regan told reporters. “Let me add that investing in our water infrastructure is not just an investment in public health, it is an investment in the local economy. For every $1,000 billion invested in water infrastructure, we create approximately 15,500 jobs.”
That is, it is estimated that more than 30,000 jobs will be created during the time that the investments are allocated for pipe replacement.
“President Biden is finally ending this generational public health crisis,” Regan insisted. “This is a public health issue, an environmental justice issue, a basic human rights issue and, finally, it is being addressed with the urgency it demands.”
Focus on most disadvantaged communities
According to a document distributed by the White House, 49% of the funding for the new pipeline program must be provided to disadvantaged communities, as grants or capital forgiveness that must not be repaid.
It is estimated that up to nine million homes are served through lead-containing pipes nationwide, many of which are in low-income communities and communities of color, including Latinos.
This public resource distribution policy is part of the Biden Administration’s Justicia40 program, in order to ensure funds for the most disadvantaged communities.
“EPA also announces the availability of $35 million in competitive grants to reduce lead in drinking water,” he said. “Communities are invited to directly apply for grants through this program. Additional federal funds are available to support lead pipe replacement projects and EPA has developed a website that identifies available funding sources.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), if someone is continually exposed to lead consumption, the health effects can be irreversible, and there is no known antidote for those who are affected.
“Improvements to lead and copper regulations strengthen national requirements to protect children and adults from these significant and irreversible health effects caused by lead in drinking water,” it stated.