WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $3 billion in new funding for states through the State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs to reduce exposure to lead in drinking water. EPA conducted a thorough review of previously awarded funding and assessed updated lead service line data to increase accountability and ensure funds are properly distributed to achieve maximum impact in removing lead pipes and reducing lead contamination in drinking water systems. This funding will accelerate progress in finding and removing lead pipes (also known as lead service lines that deliver water to homes, schools, and businesses) as the agency also announces a new lead service line inventories dashboard with the latest information provided by states. Lead pipes are the key source of lead—a potent neurotoxin particularly harmful to children—in drinking water.
“This investment represents the EPA’s unwavering commitment to protecting America's children from the dangers of lead exposure in their drinking water,” said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. “With our updated data, we can tackle this challenge more efficiently than ever before, and we're ensuring every dollar goes directly toward replacing the lead pipes that threaten our communities. This is about giving parents peace of mind and securing healthier futures for the next generation."