FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 8, 2024
CONTACT:
Steven Fantes, Public Affairs Manager
617-817-1297 and epn-press@environmentalprotectionnetwork.org
Environmental Protection Network Applauds Revisions to Lead and Copper Rule Improvements
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today finalized the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) to address lead in drinking water and protect the health of our nation’s communities. The rule requires that most lead service lines be replaced in homes, schools and workplaces within ten years, along with stronger drinking water testing and treatment.
In response, former director of science and technology in EPA’s Office of Water and Environmental Protection Network (EPN) volunteer Betsy Southerland released the following statement:
“The American people have known for over 30 years that there is no safe level of lead and have waited too long for lead pipes to be replaced. Finally, the lead pipes that deliver water to over 9 million homes will be replaced before they damage the mental and physical development of another generation of children. Today is the first time there is an actual deadline for lead pipe replacement to happen and significant financial and technical assistance to get the job done.”
Betsy Southerland is available to speak to the press about the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements and its effects on human health and the environment.
About Betsy Southerland: Dr. Southerland worked at the EPA for 33 years in the national Water and Superfund programs, retiring as director of science and technology in the agency’s Office of Water in 2017. She has remained active on environmental issues as a member of the Environmental Protection Network and regularly testifies before Congress about clean water issues, PFAS, and emerging, unregulated contaminants.