The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has a new plan to replace around 9 million lead water pipes in the next 10 years. In Maine, there are over 18,000 lead pipes delivering water to homes and schools, making up 0.2 percent of the nation’s lead service lines.
Pete Nichols, who leads the Maine Sierra Club, thinks this announcement is long overdue. Even though Maine is already doing well, having banned lead pipes earlier than other states, this new proposal will provide extra protection. Maine law considers 4 parts per billion an acceptable level of lead exposure, and the federal government now wants to lower the lead action levels from 15 to 10 parts per billion.
Lead is harmful, especially to infants and children. It can affect brain development, cognitive abilities, and behavior. Nichols believes the EPA’s plan will do a lot to keep our communities safe.
Earlier this year, testing in Maine schools found elevated lead levels in about a quarter of them. This often happens because of old pipes and fixtures. Maine, like many places, has lots of old infrastructure, and this new ruling will help upgrade these pipes in homes, buildings, and especially schools.
The recent federal infrastructure law set aside $15 billion for states to find and replace lead pipes, but more funds will likely be needed.
