$42.7 million in new EPA funds announced to reduce lead in drinking water

By THE STAR STAFF

Gov. Jenniffer González Colón announced Tuesday that the island will receive $42,688,500 in new allocations from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for projects to identify, plan, and replace lead service lines in drinking water systems.

“These funds represent a significant step toward ensuring our families have access to safer, lead-free drinking water,” González Colón said in a written statement.

The governor thanked the EPA and its administrator, Lee Zeldin, for the announcement and highlighted the work of the Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration (PRFAA) office in Washington.

“Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure the Island is positioned to maximize every available federal opportunity,” she added.

Zeldin noted that the investment reflects the commitment to protecting America’s children from lead exposure and that the funds will be used to replace pipes that pose a risk to communities.

PRFAA Executive Director Gabriella Boffelli stated that the allocation demonstrates the administration’s ability to advocate for Puerto Rico’s interests before the federal government. She affirmed that they will continue to collaborate with the EPA and state agencies to ensure the efficient and transparent use of resources for the benefit of Puerto Rican families.

According to the EPA, the funds come from $28.65 million in new allocations and an additional $14.0385 million redistributed by the agency under the State Rotating Drinking Water Program mandate.