State lawmakers ask for funding to address lead in drinking water

As elevated lead levels have been found in drinking water, lawmakers came together Thursday morning at the state Capitol to ask the state for funding to address the issue.

There are approximately 360,000 lead pipes across the state that are currently delivering drinking water. It would take about $1.8 billion to replace them all.

Advocates would like to see $50 million earmarked to start that painstaking, but very necessary progress.

The governor has only earmarked $30 million so far. Advocates point out that’s not enough. They point out that no new lead pipe replacement grants have been made since 2019.

Many older homes throughout the state have lead pipes, which have resulted in elevated lead levels in their drinking water. The harmful effects are well documented, including – but not limited to – learning difficulties and learning disabilities in young children.

Hear what the lawmakers say needs to happen next for the project by watching the video of Dan Levy’s story.