As previously reported in the Environmental Law Monitor blog, the Federal Lead Action Plan launched during the Trump administration’s first term could have a positive impact in reducing lead-based drinking water risks in communities across the United States.

One such region in need of assistance is the state of Illinois, which has 677,000 known lead service lines and another 820,000 suspected lines currently connected to the state’s water systems. According to reporting by the Chicago Tribune, that is more than any other state. Chicago alone has more than 400,000 of the toxic pipes, which is far more than any U.S. city.

Congress banned the use of lead service lines in 1986. According to public health officials, lead from pipes corrodes and leaches into drinking water. When lead is consumed, the human body mistakes that lead for calcium, accumulating it in bones and organs. Some studies have estimated that more than 400,000 deaths a year in the United States are linked to lead exposure.

In late May, the EPA announced $295 million to address lead in drinking water in Illinois as part of a $921 million regional investment. The EPA additionally announced another $232 million to monitor bacteria levels at Illinois beaches. This further announcement comes as the Trump administration rolls back other clean water protections, including efforts to reduce limits for PFAS in drinking water.

Addressing the challenge of lead exposure across the United States will take a multi-year effort and significant financial resources. Continued pressure for additional government support for a solution is anticipated.