Earlier this month, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (Washington, DC, USA) unveiled a proposal to fortify the U.S. Lead and Copper Rule as part of the Biden-Harris administration’s vision for a lead-free future. This proposal mandates water systems to replace lead service lines within a decade, a crucial step in ensuring safe drinking water for communities nationwide.
The President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocates over $50 billion, marking the most significant upgrade to the nation’s water infrastructure. What does this mean for the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP) members and its advocacy platform?
The potential impact on the freshwater sector of the industry is noteworthy, particularly if municipalities or contracted providers have yet to replace lead pipes with alternatives like concrete, ductile iron, or galvanized materials. A significant opportunity exists for lead abatement among AMPP contracting members, particularly those accredited to handle hazardous waste removal as mandated by the EPA.
The removal and replacement process will necessitate structural engineering, presenting an additional avenue for AMPP members. Those with engineering expertise in freshwater supply can leverage this as a substantial opportunity to redesign delivery systems for municipalities.
Considering the prevalence of old lead pipes in aging multiple-family dwellings such as apartment buildings and condos, there is a demand for removal and replacement. This scenario opens up opportunities for AMPP contractors, especially those with architectural painting divisions. Given that drywall may be damaged during repairs, these contractors can capitalize on this aspect.
For the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT), their architectural painting apprenticeship programs stand to benefit from increased demand for journeyman applicators due to new regulations necessitating the repair and repainting of structures.
AMPP’s advocacy team is planning to collaborate with the EPA and legislators to understand this recent proposal and executive action. The association’s goal is to effectively support ongoing endeavors by its members, ensuring a future where people can live securely in their communities without worrying about the adverse effects of lead exposure.
To read the complete announcement, visit: FACT SHEET: Biden-Harris Administration Announces New Action to Protect Communities from Lead Exposure | The White House.
To stay involved in government affairs and advocacy, sign up for alerts at the AMPP Action Center.
Source: AMPP, www.ampp.org.