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Biden Announces Decade-Long Effort to Replace Lead Pipes Nationwide

The new EPA rule mandates the removal of lead pipes with $2.6 billion in funding to ensure safe drinking water across the U.S..

Lead pipes
U.S. President Joe Biden speaks during a daily press briefing with Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre at The White House in Washington, U.S., October 4, 2024. REUTERS/Tom Brenner/File Photo
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U.S. President Joe Biden speaks during a news conference in the Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House on October 04, 2024 in Washington, DC.

Overview

  • President Biden's plan targets the replacement of lead pipes in over 9 million homes, addressing a long-standing public health issue.
  • The initiative includes $2.6 billion in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to aid in the nationwide effort.
  • The new EPA rule lowers the acceptable lead level in drinking water from 15 to 10 parts per billion, aiming to prevent health risks.
  • The rule emphasizes environmental justice, as lead exposure often disproportionately affects low-income and minority communities.
  • While the 10-year deadline starts in three years, some cities with extensive lead pipe networks may receive extensions.