LCRI: Next Steps for Water Systems

The recent Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) introduced by the EPA mark a significant step towards ensuring safer drinking water across the United States. These improvements require water systems to take several important actions to comply with the new regulations. Below is a guide to help water systems navigate these changes effectively and efficiently.

Develop a Baseline Service Line Inventory: Water systems must create a detailed inventory of all service lines, identifying those made of lead or galvanized steel. This inventory is crucial for planning and prioritizing replacements. The initial inventory was due by October 16, 2024, and must be updated regularly.

Replace Lead Service Lines: One of the core requirements of the LCRI is the replacement of all lead service lines within 10 years. Water systems need to develop a comprehensive replacement plan, secure funding, and begin the replacement process promptly.

Enhanced Testing and Monitoring: The LCRI mandates more rigorous testing protocols to detect lead in drinking water. Water systems must implement these protocols, which include testing at schools and childcare facilities for the first time. Regular monitoring and reporting are essential to ensure compliance and protect public health.

Public Notification and Communication: Transparency is key under the LCRI. Water systems must notify the public about the presence of lead service lines and any exceedances of lead action levels. Effective communication strategies should be developed to keep communities informed about the risks and the steps being taken to mitigate them.

Secure Funding and Resources: Compliance with the LCRI will require significant financial resources. Water systems should explore funding opportunities such as the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and grants available under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Developing a robust financial plan is essential to support the replacement and testing initiatives.

Funding can be accessed through several federal programs:

• Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: This law provides $15 billion specifically for lead service line replacement and an additional $11.7 billion for general Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (DWSRF), which can also be used for lead service line replacement.
• Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (WIIN) Grants: These grants for small, underserved, disadvantaged communities offer competitive funding opportunities that can help small systems reduce lead in drinking water.
• Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Loans: This program provides low-interest loans for water infrastructure projects, including those focused on lead service line replacement.
• EPA Technical Assistance Programs: The EPA offers technical assistance through initiatives like the Get the Lead Out (GLO) Initiative, which helps communities identify lead service lines, develop replacement plans, and apply for funding.

Staff Training and Capacity Building: Ensuring that staff are well-trained and knowledgeable about the new requirements is crucial. Water systems should invest in training programs and capacity-building initiatives to equip their teams with the necessary skills to implement the LCRI effectively.

Engage with the Community: Community engagement is vital for the successful implementation of the LCRI. Water systems should hold public meetings, provide educational materials, and work closely with community leaders to build trust and support for the lead service line replacement efforts.

The Lead and Copper Rule Improvements represent a significant advancement in protecting public health from the dangers of lead in drinking water. By following these steps, and reading EPA's Fact Sheet for further guidance, water systems can ensure compliance with the LCRI and contribute to a safer, healthier future for all communities.