Frank Pallone Jr.

10/08/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/08/2024 11:25

Pallone Announces Over $44 Million in Federal Funding to Replace Lead Pipes in New Jersey

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, announced today that New Jersey will receive more than $44 million in federal funding from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to replace lead pipes. This funding, which Pallone secured through Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will help modernize aging water systems and tackle the critical issue of lead contamination in the state.

Lead exposure, particularly for children, has been linked to developmental delays and cognitive issues. This new federal funding will prioritize the removal of hazardous lead service lines, supporting ongoing efforts to protect the health and safety of families in schools, homes, and communities throughout New Jersey.

"As part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I led the charge to include substantial investments in clean water infrastructure, like the funding being announced today," said Pallone. "Safe drinking water is a basic human right, yet right now, millions of American families cannot trust the water coming out of their taps. This funding is a major win for New Jersey and a crucial step toward ensuring every community has access to clean, safe drinking water. We're delivering real results to protect families and improve water quality across the state."

As part of this initiative, the EPA also announced today the new Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) rule, which requires water systems across the country to identify and replace all lead service lines within 10 years. Additionally, the EPA announced $2.6 billion in funding for drinking water infrastructure projects nationwide. The $44 million investment for New Jersey will strengthen the state's ability to remove lead service lines, ensuring that communities statewide-especially those most affected by outdated infrastructure-can rely on safe, clean drinking water.

For more information on the EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Improvements and funding opportunities available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, visit www.epa.gov/lead-copper-rule.