Christopher Schuler, christopher.schuler@sierraclub.org
Washington, DC – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $3 billion in funding to help states and territories identify and replace lead service lines, preventing exposure to lead in drinking water. The funds, made available through the EPA’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, are part of the historic $15 billion in dedicated funding for lead pipe replacement provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
President Biden will also speak on the investment at a planned event in Wilmington, North Carolina later today. A breakdown of FY2024 funding allocations by state and territory can be found here.
In response to the announcement, the Sierra Club issued the following statements:
“This much-needed funding will keep children and families healthy, helping ensure that they have access to safe, clean drinking water in their schools and at home. The Sierra Club and its members are proud to have helped lead the fight for comprehensive investments just like this in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act. We’re glad to see President Biden and his administration continue to prioritize the health of our people and our environment,” said Melinda Pierce, Sierra Club Legislative Director.
“As we mark the 10-year anniversary of the Flint, Michigan lead crisis, this announcement provides us an opportunity to be hopeful. No community should have to endure the lessons we’ve learned in Michigan. This investment will help us to protect our communities and our children to eliminate the toxins that rob them of a healthy vibrant future,” said Elayne Coleman, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter Director.
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About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.