A silent national crisis
According to data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are at least 9.2 million service lines oflead pipes in the United States, although other estimates put the number as high as 12.8 million. These lines continue to carry water in every state, even those that claim to have no listed lead pipes. The lack of information and investment has left many vulnerable communities at risk, especially in low-income areas and in racialized populations, who face high rates and poor water quality.

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Biden's plan and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act

To address this problem, the Biden administration launched the largest investment in water infrastructure in the nation's history, allocating $50 billion through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act. Of that amount, $15 billion is specifically earmarked for replacing lead pipes, in addition to other state funds available for various improvement projects. The EPA proposed regulations in 2023 that would require replacing most lead lines in the country within 10 years. However, experts say the true cost of a comprehensive solution far exceeds the current investment: it is estimated that between $600 billion and $1 trillion will be needed to fully modernize the U.S. water infrastructure.

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Flint and other cities still await justice

Despite the progress, Flint remains a painful example of what happens when savings are put before well-being. In 2011, austerity measures led to a change in the water source without anticipating the effects on the pipes, resulting in a legionella outbreak, structural damage to thousands of homes, and profound community trauma.

To date, approximately 2,000 homes still have damaged yards, broken sidewalks, and unchecked plumbing. Meanwhile, thousands of residents have yet to receive compensation from the fund created following class-action lawsuits. The $641 million settlement has yet to be effectively distributed.