New Infrastructure Law Includes $15 Billion to Remove Lead Pipes Across America

In a historic move, the United States government has announced a new infrastructure law that includes $15 billion to remove lead pipes and service lines across the country. This is an unprecedented investment in public health and safety, and it comes at a time when many Americans are facing water insecurity due to aging infrastructure. Lead contamination of drinking water has been linked to numerous health issues, including developmental delays in children, learning disabilities, kidney damage, and even death. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that over 3 million people are exposed to unsafe levels of lead in their drinking water each year. The new infrastructure law will provide funding for states and local governments to replace lead pipes with safer alternatives such as copper or plastic piping. This will ensure that all Americans have access to clean, safe drinking water no matter where they live. Additionally, the funds can be used for other initiatives such as repairing broken pipes or improving treatment systems. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that this new investment could reduce lead levels in drinking water by up to 90 percent over the next decade. It's estimated that more than 10 million homes nationwide still contain lead service lines - meaning this law could potentially save thousands of lives every year by preventing lead poisoning from contaminated tap water. "This is an important step forward for our nation," said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler in a statement announcing the legislation. "Clean water ought to be something that's guaranteed - and with this new infrastructure law we're working towards making sure all Americans have access."