AWWA responds to new legislation on lead in drinking water

DENVER, CO, Jan. 5, 2011 -- Yesterday President Obama signed into law the Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act, which will amend the Safe Drinking Water Act to reduce lead in drinking water supplies. AWWA Executive Director David LaFrance released the following statement:

"The American Water Works Association (AWWA) will support implementation of the bill signed by President Obama and pledges to work with its membership to help reduce the amount of lead in water supplies. Minimizing potential sources of lead helps assure that high quality drinking water delivered from treatment plants remains safe after it reaches our homes, schools and businesses. Controlling lead exposure in tap water requires a sustained commitment from manufacturers who create fixtures, water providers who optimize corrosion control, and consumers, who can take simple steps to reduce exposure at home. AWWA will continue to provide guidance in each of these areas as part of our longstanding commitment to protect public health."

AWWA is the authoritative resource for knowledge, information, and advocacy to improve the quality and supply of water in North America and beyond. AWWA is the largest organization of water professionals in the world. AWWA advances public health, safety and welfare by uniting the efforts of the full spectrum of the entire water community. Through our collective strength we become better stewards of water for the greatest good of the people and the environment.

###