A decade later, the Flint, Michigan water crisis persists, with the president raising concerns about lead in tap water. Joe Biden is finalizing a bold plan to ensure safe drinking water for all Americans within 10 years, mandating the replacement of lead pipes in cities nationwide.
In a critical move, Biden is set to introduce a final EPA rule in Wisconsin, emphasizing the importance of safe drinking water amidst a tense presidential election campaign. Vice President Kamala Harris has been a vocal advocate for safe drinking water, prioritizing this issue during her vice presidency and the presidential campaign. The new regulations aim to replace previous lax standards set by the former president, Donald Trump, which did not include a universal requirement to replace lead pipes.
EPA Administrator Michael Regan stated on Monday that Biden and Harris view it as a “moral obligation” to provide clean drinking water to all. The new rules aim to tackle the issue of lead in drinking water, highlighting the risks associated with lead exposure.
The forthcoming rules represent the most comprehensive overhaul of lead standards in almost three decades, addressing the neurotoxic effects of lead exposure, which can lead to various health problems, particularly in children. Compared to last fall’s proposal, the new regulations set a stricter threshold for lead levels and require water systems to inform the public about protective measures in case of high lead levels.
Lead pipes, predominantly found in low-income urban areas and older industrial regions, pose a significant health risk. Major cities like Chicago, Cleveland, New York, Detroit, and Milwaukee are among those that could benefit from the standards set by Biden and Regan.
To assist communities in meeting the new standards, the EPA is allocating additional funds for drinking water infrastructure and providing grants to reduce lead exposure. The 10-year timeline for replacing lead pipes will be initiated within three years, with certain cities having longer timelines based on the volume of lead pipes to be replaced.
In a bid to prevent water crises like the one in Flint, the EPA is pushing for accelerated pipe replacement efforts using funds from the federal infrastructure law. Biden’s announcement in Milwaukee, which has a high number of lead pipes, signifies a commitment to ensuring safe drinking water for all Americans.
Lead pipes, known to contaminate drinking water, must be removed to prevent health hazards. The EPA’s efforts align with the administration’s push for stricter drinking water standards, addressing not only lead but also other harmful substances like PFAS. While these measures come at a significant cost, the public health benefits are substantial.
The proposed rules have garnered support from organizations like the American Water Works Association, although challenges remain, such as locating lead pipes in cities lacking accurate records. The push for cleaner, safer drinking water underscores the administration’s commitment to public health and environmental protection.
Source: www.nbcnews.com
