Get the Lead Out Act of 2016 - Summer

Team Members: Tiara Cunningham, Marissa Sterling, Zhuo Hao Kevin Cheng, Jingjing Du, Kaiyu Qiu, Na Su, Fatma Zişan Tokaç, Issac Wilkins, Xinjia Emily Yan

Lead contamination in drinking water remains a widespread public health threat in the United States, with aging infrastructure exposing millions of residents to toxic levels of lead. Lead exposure can cause neurological damage, cardiovascular disease, and developmental impairments, particularly in children, and no safe level of exposure has been identified. Although regulatory efforts have reduced lead use in plumbing and manufacturing, many cities still rely on aging lead service lines that continue to contaminate drinking water.

The legislation proposes a federal grant program to support lead service line replacement, corrosion control, and public education initiatives. Analysis shows that replacing aging infrastructure and improving corrosion control could significantly reduce exposure risks and associated public health costs. The program prioritizes vulnerable populations, including children and low-income communities, where exposure risks are highest. Findings also emphasize the importance of education and monitoring to ensure effective implementation and long-term protection. By addressing infrastructure deficiencies and supporting prevention efforts, the legislation would reduce public health risks, promote environmental justice, and protect future generations from lead exposure.

Learn more about the MPA-ESP Workshop in Applied Earth Systems Management.