Lead in tap water is a danger we can’t ignore. Back in 2017, I wrote about the crisis in Flint, Michigan—how greed and recklessness poisoned an entire community. The shocking truth? It could happen anywhere, including where you live. See the new Natural Resources Defense Council [NRDC]’s lead pipe map to check if your community is at risk.
In Colorado where I live, 23 cities still have over 20,000 lead pipes threatening our water supply. According to a recent article in the Colorado Sun, these pipes could contaminate tap water with lead—a toxic metal that can harm children’s development, damage organs, and even shorten lifespans.
The EPA stepped up this year, giving Colorado $32.8 million to help test and replace these dangerous pipes. It’s part of a $2.6 billion nationwide effort funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. That’s good news—safe drinking water is a basic right.
But here’s the problem: this progress / funding could be at risk. Elon Musk has been going after the EPA, and it’s a reminder of how the Trump administration tried to weaken environmental protections at every turn. Under Trump, the focus was on cutting regulations, even if it meant putting public health on the line. If we return to that mindset, crucial programs like the lead pipe replacement initiative could be slashed, leaving millions exposed to harmful toxins.
This isn’t just about politics—it’s about clean drinking water for families, safe schools for kids, and healthier communities for everyone. Let’s not allow short-sighted policies take us backward. Protecting agencies like the EPA isn’t just smart; it’s essential for keeping us safe.
Does Your Home Have Lead Pipes?
Worried about lead in your tap water? Start by finding out if your home has lead service lines. Contact your local water utility or check online resources like the Natural Resources Defense Council [NRDC]’s lead pipe map to see if your area is at risk. Let’s stay informed, stay vigilant, and keep pushing for progress. Safe water shouldn’t be a luxury—it’s a right.