Tell the EPA: Getting lead out of drinking water is crucial to the health of children

More than 24 million kids are at risk of being exposed to lead, a potent neurotoxin that affects how children think, learn and behave. Lead is so toxic that the Academy of Pediatrics recommends a health standard of no more than 1 part per billion.

From Ohio to Massachusetts, lead leaching from old pipes and service lines wreaks havoc on school systems everywhere. PIRG has seen reports of school faucets leaching 22,400 parts per billion. These cases are likely just the tip of the iceberg. Most schools have at least some lead in their pipes, plumbing, faucets or drinking fountains. And where there's lead, there's risk of contamination.

Strong action is needed to create a healthier world for our kids, and I applaud the EPA for proposing a new plan to address these concerns. We have a real chance here to get the lead out of the drinking water for millions of kids and we need to capitalize on this opportunity. I urge you to take the necessary steps to get lead out of children's drinking water.