The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is considering revisions to the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR). The revisions will help reduce the public health problems caused by unsafe or toxic levels of lead in drinking water. This study will help identify gaps in existing policies on water sampling to measure lead levels, replacement of water lines that contain lead, and public education aimed at reducing exposure to lead.
The responsibility for avoiding harmful exposures to lead in drinking water is shared between water utilities, consumers, regulatory agencies and manufacturers. Findings from this study may help the EPA in revising the LCR. The findings may also help policy makers shape future laws and regulations, especially when multiple groups share responsibility for preventing toxic exposures to lead.