News

Actions

Michigan, experts urge toughest lead rules in US

Posted at 2:27 PM, Apr 15, 2016
and last updated 2016-04-15 14:27:14-04

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder and water experts are proposing that the state adopt the nation’s toughest lead-testing rules in the wake of the lead-tainted water crisis in Flint.

They’re also recommending the replacement of all lead service pipes within a decade.

Other recommendations would require utilities to test all schools and day care centers, and not just some houses. Lead plumbing disclosures also would be mandatory in home sales.

The plan was given to The Associated Press ahead of a meeting in Flint on Friday. It was presented to a committee that Snyder appointed to work on long-term fixes related to the city’s water problems.

Federal rules require systems to take steps to control corrosion if lead concentrations exceed 15 parts per billion in more than 10 percent of sampled taps. Michigan would move to a limit of 10 parts per billion by 2020.