The US Environmental Protection Agency Unveils New Rule to Replace Lead Pipes
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized a rule that requires the replacement of lead pipes in drinking water systems within a decade. This new regulation aims to address the long-standing issue of lead exposure, which poses serious health risks, particularly to children. The EPA estimates that up to 9 million homes across the US still receive water flowing through old lead pipes.
The announcement is a significant step forward in addressing the health risks associated with lead exposure, which have been magnified in low-income neighborhoods and communities of color where older infrastructure is more prevalent. The water crisis in Flint, Michigan, brought national attention to this issue in 2014. However, despite efforts made over the years, communities across the US are still struggling to replace lead pipes.
EPA Administrator Michael Regan emphasized that the new rule is a matter of public health, environmental justice, and basic human rights, requiring urgent action. He stated, "This is a matter of basic human rights…and it is finally being met with the urgency it demands." The EPA’s new rule sets a stricter limit on lead levels in drinking water, reducing the allowable amount from 15 parts per billion to 10 parts per billion.
Since the 1970s, more than 75 federal policies have been created to limit children’s exposure to lead. These efforts have led to a reduction in average blood lead levels in kids over the years. However, no level of lead exposure is considered safe. Lead exposure raises the risk of heart disease, cancer, and other health issues in adults. It can also affect brain development in children, potentially lowering IQ and leading to behavioral changes such as difficulty concentrating.
As people can store lead in their bodies, adults may expose a fetus to the toxic metal during pregnancy. The EPA expects its new lead rule to prevent low birthweight in up to 900,000 infants. It also estimates that this measure could prevent Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in up to 2,600 children and "prevent up to 200,000 IQ points lost" in kids.
The billions of dollars allocated for replacing lead pipes comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed in 2021. This law included a total of $50 billion to improve drinking and wastewater systems. EPA Administrator Regan emphasized that this is a bipartisan effort, as there have been individuals on both sides of the aisle advocating for the removal of lead service lines for several years.
President Joe Biden plans to travel to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, today to highlight the new drinking water rule and funding announcement. The city has accelerated its timeline for replacing lead pipes from 60 years to a decade in response to the EPA’s new deadline. Milwaukee received $30 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law this year to replace some 3,400 lead service lines.
Despite progress made, there are still challenges ahead in eliminating aging lead pipes. Utilities do not have to pay for the cost of replacing lead pipes on private property under the EPA’s rule. This risks placing the burden on homeowners who may struggle to afford replacement costs. The New York Times reports that this issue highlights the need for further action.
Advocates also point out that the EPA still needs to address other ways children can be exposed to lead, such as plumbing and fixtures outside of service lines covered in the new rule. Consumer advocacy group US PIRG Education Fund notes that these hazards remain present in schools. Yana Kucher, chair of the organization’s toxics program, stated in a press release, "Kudos to the EPA for starting to move lead pipes into the dustbin of history…Now, let’s get the lead out of the fountains and plumbing where our kids go to school."
The Importance of Addressing Lead Exposure
Lead exposure poses significant health risks, particularly to children. The EPA estimates that up to 9 million homes across the US still receive water flowing through old lead pipes. The announcement is a significant step forward in addressing this issue, but there are still challenges ahead.
Replacing Lead Pipes: A Matter of Public Health and Environmental Justice
The new rule sets a stricter limit on lead levels in drinking water, reducing the allowable amount from 15 parts per billion to 10 parts per billion. This measure aims to prevent low birthweight in up to 900,000 infants and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in up to 2,600 children.
A Bipartisan Effort: Funding for Replacing Lead Pipes
The billions of dollars allocated for replacing lead pipes comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed in 2021. This law included a total of $50 billion to improve drinking and wastewater systems. EPA Administrator Regan emphasized that this is a bipartisan effort, as there have been individuals on both sides of the aisle advocating for the removal of lead service lines.
Conclusion
The new rule to replace lead pipes is a significant step forward in addressing the long-standing issue of lead exposure. While challenges remain ahead, this measure aims to prevent serious health risks associated with lead exposure, particularly to children. The EPA’s efforts demonstrate its commitment to protecting public health and environmental justice.