WASHINGTON, D.C., USA — Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner announced on Thursday that Virginia would be receiving over $35 million for the replacement of lead pipes throughout the state.
The senators issued a joint statement on the announcement.
“Every Virginian should have access to safe, reliable drinking water,” said the senators. “We’re thrilled this funding will eliminate dangerous lead exposure in the tap water of homes and schools across the Commonwealth, all while creating good-paying jobs. We’re glad to have helped pass the legislation that made this investment possible and will continue to do all that we can to keep Virginians safe.”
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates there are nearly 200,000 lead service lines in Virginia. The effects of drinking water tainted with lead can lead to significant, long-term health risks.
In children, lead exposure can hinder mental and physical development, damage the brain irreversibly and slow down learning.
In adults, lead exposure can cause increased blood pressure, heart disease, cancer and decreased kidney functions.
And the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say there is no known antidote to lead.
The funding was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and will be allocated by the EPA. It comes after a final rule was issued by the Biden-Harris Administration that requires drinking water systems to identify and replace lead pipes within 10 years.
