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WHP580 Newsroom

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>Report: Pennsylvania's Lead Pipe Problem Among Worst In America

Pennsylvania is facing a significant lead pipe issue, ranking among the states with the most lead water service lines in the country. According to a report from the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Pittsburgh and Philadelphia alone report having 29,000 and 25,000 lead pipes, respectively. However, the actual number is believed to be much higher due to a lack of comprehensive data. The NRDC estimates that more than 660,000 service lines in Pennsylvania contain lead.

The presence of lead in water service lines poses a serious public health risk, as there is no safe level of lead exposure. Michelle Naccaratti-Chapkis, Executive Director of Women for a Healthy Environment (WHE), emphasized the gravity of the issue, stating, “There’s no safe amount of lead exposure.” WHE focuses on creating safe environments in schools, homes, and daycares, particularly where young children are present.

Efforts to address the problem have seen increased state and federal funding. Governor Josh Shapiro announced $200 million for water system upgrades and lead pipe removal in January 2024. In addition, Pennsylvania received $300 million in 2022 for water infrastructure projects. However, legislative efforts for further funding have stalled. A bipartisan Senate proposal for $30 million to test school water systems for lead, introduced as Senate Bill 986, failed to progress out of the Education Committee last year.

Despite these efforts, the problem remains widespread. The NRDC report reveals that lead pipes are found in all 50 states, with Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and Florida having the most. The United States has more than 9 million lead pipes still in use, highlighting the need for sustained effort to resolve the issue.


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