Iowa representatives introduce bipartisan bill to expand lead pipe replacement
Representatives Zach Nunn (IA-03) and Emilia Sykes (OH-13) have introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at ensuring federal funding for lead pipe replacement reaches communities in need, according to Western Iowa Today.
The proposed Safe Drinking Water for Disadvantaged Communities Act seeks to guarantee that the $15 billion allocated under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act for lead service line replacement is distributed to disadvantaged communities through forgivable loans or grants.
The bipartisan response aims to ensure that all funds designated by Congress for replacing lead pipes benefit the communities with the greatest need, Rep. Nunn stated.
Lead pipes can release harmful toxins into treated water. Over time, corrosion leads to harmful water contamination, and can pose significant long-term health risks for residents. Nationwide, over 9 million lead service lines are still in use, with approximately 160,000 located in Iowa, Western Iowa Today reported.
The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 allocated $15 billion to the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund for lead service line replacement, with nearly half designated for disadvantaged communities. However, the implementation of this funding has varied by state. The Safe Drinking Water for Disadvantaged Communities Act aims to require that all lead pipe replacement funds from the bipartisan infrastructure law be allocated to disadvantaged communities as forgivable loans or grants.
Rep. Nunn introduced the Safe Drinking Water for Disadvantaged Communities Act alongside Amy Kahler, CEO of Des Moines Water Works, and Des Moines Mayor Connie Boesen.
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