High levels of lead have been found in the drinking water in Florida schools, and the problem has been ongoing for years. Schools across the state are still waiting for federal aid to mitigate the issue and reduce health risks.
Florida’s Ongoing Water Issue Impacts Children’s Health
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For several years, Florida schools have been battling with the government to help them resolve the issue of lead in the drinking water provided to students.
The Dangers of Lead Exposure in Children
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Children who have been exposed to lead through their drinking water can experience a host of health problems as a result ranging from mild to severe.
The Serious Consequences of Contaminated Water
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In some cases, lead exposure can cause issues such as constipation, headaches, and insomnia. More severe potential consequences include organ damage, seizures, and even death.
Risks to Adults
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It’s not just the children who are at risk: adults can suffer from lead poisoning as well, leading to potentially serious effects on their health. From fertility problems and cognitive issues to organ failure and cancer, lead poisoning in adults is very dangerous.
Lead-Contaminated Water a Nationwide Problem
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Unfortunately, the problem is not unique to Florida. In a recent study, researchers found that every single state in the country has a water quality problem. Half of the schools tested showed dangerous levels of lead in their drinking water, revealing a massive and widespread issue.
Biden Administration Responds
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This week, the Biden administration announced that it will disperse $26 million in aid to schools and childcare facilities throughout the country experiencing issues with lead. Via the Environmental Protection agency, the funds will go directly into implementing the 3Ts Program.
Explaining the 3Ts
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The 3Ts Program is an initiative that encourages training, testing, and taking action against lead in drinking water. The program provides information, resources, and education. This program is a requirement for schools receiving the EPA funding.
Impact of the Grant
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The funding will be spread out to schools and childcare facilities in all fifty states, plus Washington, D.C. and four other territories. The EPA hopes that the grant will allow schools to take the necessary steps to reduce the lead in their drinking water.
“There is No Safe Level of Exposure to Lead”
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“The science is clear: there is no safe level of exposure to lead,” said Bruno Pigott, the Acting Assistant Administrator for Water at the EPA. “This $26 million will help protect our children from the harmful impacts of lead.”
Biden Hopes for Infrastructure Changes
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Pigott described additional efforts on behalf of the Biden Administration that aim to make infrastructure changes and reduce lead exposure throughout the country.
$15 Billion Awarded to Infrastructure
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“EPA is also investing $15 billion under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to remove lead pipes and is providing technical assistance to communities to help them develop and implement lead pipe replacement projects,” Pigott said.
Get the Lead Out (GLO)
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According to a press release, the EPA also intends to expand the Get the Lead Out program. The GLO program exists to help with the process of removing lead pipes in communities that have historically been marginalized.
Water Fountains a Major Concern
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Experts have advised schools to use the EPA funding to replace water fountains, most of which are old and potentially dangerous. Modern water fountains have the ability to filter drinking water to ensure it is safe for consumption.
Expert Weighs In
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John Rumpler with Environment America went to the local news in Florida to express his concerns about lead exposure in children.
“A Basic Expectation”
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“I think every parent wants to make sure that their kids have safe drinking water every day,” Rumpler said. “Wherever they go to learn and play, that’s just a basic expectation we have for our schools and childare systems.”
DeSantis’s Inaction on Water Quality in Schools
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Despite an earlier commitment to improving water quality in the state, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has spent the summer vetoing bills related to the issue.
Community Hopeful for a Resolution
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Parents and community members are looking to the EPA grant for relief from a problem that the state has not addressed.
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