Comments on the proposed the Environmental Protection Agency rules for lead and copper pipes need to be submitted by Jan. 13. The EPA announced new provisions to the Lead and Copper Pipe Rule (LCR), which, for the first time, dictates how Community Water Systems (CWS) test for the prevalence of lead in schools’ and childcare centers’ drinking water.

AASA raises concerns about the lack of federal funding available to school districts to remediate the prevalence of lead in schools; and with how this proposal could result in the dissemination of erroneous information about the safety of a school’s drinking water to district leaders, school personnel, students and parents.

The tragedy in Flint Michigan reminded us all of the dangers that lead poses to our students’ well-being, so we know that schools can’t be complacent on this issue. Due to this, AASA encourages school districts to weigh in on their concern for protecting the nation’s drinking water.

To comment on the proposal, please follow the directions below:

  1. Copy this template and fill in the highlighted fields with the requested information.
  2. Go to https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EPA-HQ-OW-2017-0300 and click “Comment Now,” on the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations: Lead and Copper Rule Revisions
  3. In the ‘Comment” box, type something similar to this: “As the superintendent of xxx, I submit the following comments on the proposed regulation titled “National Primary Drinking Water Regulations: Lead and Copper Rule Revisions.”
  4. Below the comment box:
    • Upload your completed template
    • Click continue
  5. On the next page mark the box stating “I read and understand the statement above.”
  6. Click “submit comments”

Comments are due on or before Jan. 13. Also, If you are pressed for time or need help submitting the comments, AASA staff can submit them on your behalf. To do this, please reach out to me directly at crogers@aasa.org