Pallone Moves to Rid School Drinking Water of Lead

U.S. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-6), the ranking member on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, tomorrow will announce new legislation to amend the Safe Drinking Water Act and provide assistance to schools to replace older drinking water fountains that may contain lead.

Pallone’s office said the bill would establish a grant program to provide assistance to local educational agencies for the replacement of drinking water fountains manufactured prior to 1988.

The congressman will make the announcement at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in New Brunswick. Dozens of New Jersey schools, including New Brunswick have reported lead levels over the federal limit this year. Lead in drinking water poses serious health risks, especially for children.