EPA Officials Announce Major Rule Changes For Lead, Copper Pipes

The Environmental Protection Agency says its new rules mean local water systems will have to act sooner to reduce lead levels. The major change in rules for lead and copper pipes were announced at a news conference late last week in Green Bay. Federal officials say the changes will improve communication with the public and offer better protection for children. Additional testing of lead levels at schools and child care facilities will be required. Wisconsin D-N-R officials say the first changes since 1991 don’t go far enough.