On October 8, EPA announced a final rule requiring drinking water systems across the country to identify and replace lead pipes within 10 years. EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule Improvements also require more rigorous testing of drinking water and a lower threshold requiring communities to take action to protect people from lead exposure in water. With the final rule, EPA announced $2.6 billion in newly available drinking water infrastructure funding.


Under Reduction of Lead Exposure in the Nation’s Drinking Water Systems through Full Lead Service Line Replacement and Treatment Improvements, EPA anticipates awarding approximately two to four assistance agreements ranging from approximately $5,000,000 to no more than $10,000,000. Under Reducing Children’s Exposure to Lead in Drinking Water in Schools and Childcare Facilities, EPA anticipates awarding approximately three to five assistance agreements ranging from approximately $2,000,000 to no more than $5,000,000. The project period for both grants is anticipated to be up to four years.