Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME) at an Event in Portland Last Year..

Congresswoman  Chellie Pingree (D) recently announced she is pleased the Biden-Harris administration and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for their final rule requiring states to identify and replace lead pipes within ten years – a provision Pingree has long pushed for.  The Lead and Copper Risk Improvements (LCRI) also requires more rigorous testing of drinking water and a lower threshold requiring communities to take action to protect people from lead exposure in water.

In addition, the final rule improves communication within communities so that famililes are better informed about the risk of lead in drinking water, the location of lead pipes and plans for reaplacing them.

Alongisde the Lead & Copper Rule Improvements, EPA is announcing $2.6 billion in money available funding to improve funding to inprove drinking water infrastructure, including $24.9 million in Maine  – made possible through the landmark Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the federal funding will flow through the Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (DWSRF) and will support lead-pipe replacement and other inventory projects in Maine.  Communities may also apply directly for an additional $25 million in competitive grant funding for reducing lead in drinking water.

:I’m thrilled that the Biden-Harris Admidnistratdion is delivering on its promise to improve our country’s drinking water and safeuard the American people from dangerous exposure to lead and other harmful contaminants,” said Pingree,   “All Americans deserve access to clean, safe, reliable drinking waer.  Nearly 40 years after lead pipes were banned in the US, we’re finally taking the necessary steps to ensure that all outdated systems and pipes are replaced including right here in Maine……………….”