In October 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), mandating that all lead service lines (LSLs) be replaced within a decade to mitigate lead exposure risks in drinking water. This regulation also lowers the lead action level from 15 parts per billion (ppb) to 10 ppb and requires more rigorous testing protocols.

In response to the LCRI, Iowa conducted a comprehensive survey revealing that approximately 4% of the state's water service lines—totaling 51,918—are made of lead. The survey also found that 81% of lines are lead-free, nearly 14% are of undetermined material, and less than 2% are galvanized lines requiring replacement. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is overseeing efforts to identify and replace these lead lines, with a compliance deadline set for November 1, 2027, to determine the material of all unknown pipes. Following this, water systems will have ten years to remove all identified lead service lines.

To support these initiatives, the EPA announced over $30 million in newly available drinking water infrastructure funding for Iowa through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This funding will flow through the Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (DWSRFs) and is available to support lead pipe replacement and inventory projects. Additionally, 49% of the funding must be provided to disadvantaged communities as grant funding or principal forgiveness that does not have to be repaid. EPA is also announcing the availability of $35 million in competitive grant funding for reducing lead in drinking water. Communities are invited to apply directly for grant funding through this program.

However, challenges remain regarding the financial responsibility for replacing privately owned lead lines, as federal rules do not specify who should bear these costs. Water systems are exploring funding options to assist homeowners, but potential legal disputes over cost allocation are anticipated.

Lead exposure poses significant health risks, particularly to children and pregnant women. Even low levels of lead can cause irreversible damage to children's developing brains, leading to cognitive impairments and behavioral issues. For pregnant women, lead exposure increases the risk of low birthweights and miscarriages. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the EPA agree that no level of lead exposure is safe.

The installation of lead service lines was banned in 1986 due to the recognized health risks. However, many older infrastructures still contain these pipes. The original Lead and Copper Rule was established in 1991, but there has been no meaningful improvement in protecting communities under this rule for over 30 years until the recent LCRI.

The LCRI is expected to have significant social and economic impacts. While the public health benefits are substantial, the financial burden of replacing lead service lines is considerable. The average cost to fully replace an LSL exceeds $10,000, and the total cost to replace all such service lines could easily exceed $90 billion. Even with the unprecedented $15 billion injection for lead service line replacement from the federal bipartisan infrastructure act, water bills may rise to pay for this initiative. Recognizing that many households already struggle to pay their water bills, efforts are being made to lessen the cost burden in disadvantaged communities.

Community engagement and education are crucial for the successful implementation of lead pipe replacement programs. Public education campaigns can inform residents about the risks of lead exposure and the importance of replacing lead service lines. Community involvement can also help identify lead pipes and prioritize replacement efforts.

Policy and legal challenges may arise from the LCRI, including disputes over financial responsibility and compliance deadlines. Water systems and homeowners may face legal disputes over who is responsible for the cost of replacing privately owned lead lines. Compliance deadlines may also pose challenges for water systems, particularly those with limited resources.

In conclusion, Iowa's proactive steps to comply with the EPA's LCRI demonstrate a commitment to public health and infrastructure improvement. However, the road ahead involves navigating financial, legal, and social challenges to ensure safe drinking water for all Iowans. Collaboration between federal, state, and local entities, along with community engagement, will be essential in achieving the goal of eliminating lead from drinking water systems.