EPA Unveils $3 Billion Boost to Accelerate Removal of Lead from U.S. Drinking Water

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on Tuesday a major $3 billion funding package to help states reduce lead in drinking water, alongside an additional $1.1 billion in previously allocated funds. The investment will support nationwide efforts to identify and remove lead service lines—the primary source of lead contamination in water systems across homes, schools, and businesses. Lead exposure, especially in children, can cause severe and lifelong neurological and physical harm. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin called the funding a reflection of the agency’s “unwavering commitment” to protecting American families from lead-related risks. Updated assessments now estimate about 4 million lead service lines remain in the U.S., a significant drop from the previous 9 million estimate but still a major public health challenge. The new funding aims to accelerate progress toward eliminating this persistent threat.