Oklahoma to receive $27.4 million to reduce lead in drinking water

The Environmental Protection Agency announced more than $27 million in funding for Oklahoma to help reduce exposure to lead in drinking water.

According to the EPA, Oklahoma will receive $27,456,000 through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program. Officials said the funding will support projects aimed at identifying and replacing lead service lines that deliver water to homes.

Funding Will Support Lead Pipe Removal
The EPA said communities can use the funding for locating lead pipes, planning replacement projects and removing lead service lines.

Officials said lead exposure can pose serious health risks, especially for children, because lead is considered a neurotoxin.
“An investment in removing lead pipes is an investment in America’s children and families,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Jess Kramer.

How The Program Works
The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund is a financial assistance program administered by states to help water systems meet federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards.

The EPA said funding allocations are based on available information regarding an estimated 4 million lead service lines nationwide.