The Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), housed under the Safe Drinking Water Act regulatory framework, are now in effect. The final rule mandates that drinking water systems across the country identify and replace lead pipes within a decade. It will also require more rigorous testing of drinking water and a lower threshold requiring communities to take action to protect people from lead exposure in water. The rule improvements aim to protect communities from the harmful effects of lead exposure, particularly in vulnerable populations.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has allocated $2.6 billion in funding to support lead pipe replacement and inventory projects. This funding, made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will be distributed through drinking water state revolving funds (DWSRFs) and will prioritize disadvantaged communities. Furthermore, EPA has announced $35 million in competitive grant funding for reducing lead in drinking water, encouraging communities to apply directly for these grants.
The LCRI establishes achievable and practical standards that have already been implemented by several states and cities. The rule is estimated to have significant public health and economic benefits, far outweighing its costs. By investing in lead pipe replacement, communities can not only improve the health and well-being of their residents but also create local jobs and stimulate economic growth.
Learn more about the updates here.
