EPA Estimates 9.2 Million Lead Water Pipes In US, Funds Some Replacements

"The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on Tuesday that it estimates that there are 9.2 million lead pipes carrying water throughout the country and said it was allocating some of the funds from the bipartisan infrastructure law to replace them.

Exposure to lead — which can occur when lead pipes corrode, causing the substance to get into drinking water — can harm a child’s brain and nervous system and result in slowed growth and development, as well as problems with learning, behavior, hearing and speech.

Lead contamination has been a major problem in the country, including during the Flint, Michigan, water crisis.

The bipartisan infrastructure law provides $15 billion to replace the country’s lead pipes, and the EPA said on Tuesday that about $3 billion from the law would be used for lead service line identification and replacement. Officials told reporters on Monday that the money would be dispersed based on where it is most needed."

Rachel Frazin reports for The Hill April 4, 2023.

Source: The Hill, 04/05/2023