EPA Proposes to Remove Lead Pipes from Water Service Lines

The proposal would require water utilities in the United States to replace all lead and specific galvanized service pipes within 10 years.

According to the Biden-Harris Administration, up to 10 million American households connect to water through lead pipes and service lines. Because of the dangers associated with lead exposure through water pipes and paint, the Administration created the Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan in 2021.

In accordance with that plan, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) proposal, which would require water utilities across the U.S. to replace 100% of lead and certain galvanized water service lines in 10 years or less. The proposed rule is an improvement of the agency’s 1991 Lead and Copper Rule, which regulates lead and copper levels in drinking water.

To comply with the proposed rule, utility companies must replace a minimum of 10% of lead water pipes servicing their community annually to reach 100% completion in the 10-year timeframe.

The rule would also lower the lead action level identified through water testing from 15 µg/L to 10 µg/L, and require states, water utilities, and communities to locate lead pipes currently servicing the public.