Every Iowa family should have peace of mind when they turn on the tap. But today, over 160,000 lead service lines still carry water into homes across our state — putting kids at risk and forcing too many communities to live with outdated, dangerous infrastructure.
The problem: Lead exposure from drinking water is a silent threat, especially for children, where even small doses can cause serious developmental and learning challenges.
Zoom out: Congress set aside $15 billion in the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law to replace these toxic pipes.
But here’s the catch: too little of that money is reaching disadvantaged communities, especially in disadvantaged communities here in heartland states like Iowa.
The solution: This morning at Des Moines Water Works, I introduced the bipartisan Safe Water for Disadvantaged Communities Act, a commonsense fix to ensure 100% of federal lead pipe replacement funding is delivered as grants or forgivable loans to the communities that need them most.
📽️ Click here or the video below to learn how we’re working with organizations on the ground in our communities to get the lead out.
Bottom Line: Iowans deserve clean, safe drinking water every time they turn on the tap. Congress already approved the funds, and we’re making sure they reach the communities that need them most.