ST. PAUL, Minn. — A $240 million bill to replace lead piping across Minnesota was signed into law.
Gov. Tim Walz announced the signing of the bill Tuesday, saying the bill will improve the health and safety of Minnesotans.
“Safe, clean drinking water is a basic human need — and it’s about time we made it a reality for all Minnesota residents,” said Walz. “By investing statewide in lead pipe replacements, we are providing relief to families and homeowners and improving the health and safety of Minnesotans in every part of the state. In doing so, we are creating a safer, cleaner future for our children and grandchildren.”
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The Minnesota Department of Health estimates that there are approximately 100,000 water supply lines in the state that discharge lead into drinking water.
“Every Minnesotan deserves safe, clean drinking water – period,” said Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan. “Right now, over 100,000 pipes are leaking lead into our drinking water, posing the greatest risk to children and pregnant people and disproportionately harming marginalized communities across the state. This is unacceptable and we are taking action. I am so grateful to lawmakers and a broad coalition of advocates for recognizing that we can make safe drinking water for all a reality.”
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The bill will allocate $240 million to the Public Facilities Authority to create a grant program to replace leaded water supply lines.
WCCO staff
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