Extensive research over the years has consistently proven that there is no level of lead exposure deemed safe. This is why the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is dedicated to safeguarding Americans from lead in drinking water. On November 30, 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) unveiled the proposed improvements to the Lead and Copper Rule (LCRI). This proposed rule marks a significant stride in safeguarding both children and adults from the severe and irreversible health consequences associated with lead exposure in drinking water. Grounded in scientific knowledge and established practices within drinking water systems, key elements of the proposal encompass achieving a 100% replacement of lead pipes within a decade, identifying legacy lead pipes, enhancing tap sampling procedures, reducing the Lead Action Level, and fortifying measures to minimize exposure. Cumulatively, these provisions in the proposed LCRI aim to enhance public health safeguards, simplify processes, and streamline implementation. The EPA aims to finalize the LCRI before October 16, 2024.

Next Steps: 

For a comprehensive overview of the latest updates on LCRI and their potential implications for regulatory agencies, please refer to the EPA website. Additionally, the EPA will be conducting an online webinar on December 6, 2023, from 1-2 PM for those seeking further insights.
 
If you have any concerns or seek a more in-depth understanding of how these adjustments might affect your Municipality, feel free to reach out to our Quiddity experts for assistance. You can contact Pam Madrigal, PE, at Pmadrigal@quiddity.com, Chad Walker, PE, at Cwalker@quiddity.com, or Wesley Lay, PE, at Wlay@quiddity.com. Additionally, explore our previous articles below for more information on EPA Lead and Copper revisions.