EPA Releases New Guidance to Reduce Lead Exposure in Drinking Water and Protect American Children

August 24, 2026 | Updated by the Know Your H20 Team

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today released practical guidance to help drinking water systems protect communities from lead. The documents advance the agency's commitment to clear, plain-language communication by providing definitions, examples, and actionable information that support compliance with lead service line replacement requirements under the Lead and Copper Rule. Reducing exposure to lead—a potent neurotoxin that poses particular risks to children—supports the Trump EPA's goal of Making America Healthy Again.

"The agency's efforts to reduce lead in drinking water began under the first Trump Administration and continue today under Administrator Zeldin's leadership," said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Jess Kramer. "EPA is committed to supporting local water systems as they identify and remove lead pipes. Today we are providing practical, clear, plain-language guidance that clarifies existing federal requirements. This action complements federal funding and technical assistance as part of a holistic approach."

EPA is issuing two resources—Access Tips and Service Line Inventory Tips—to assist water systems and states in implementing the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI). In April 2026 the agency sought public input on draft versions of these documents and incorporated the feedback received into the final materials.

The agency is addressing lead in drinking water comprehensively by emphasizing collaboration, practical implementation, and clear communication. EPA recently launched a redesigned lead website at epa.gov/lead that includes a new StoryMap on Lead and Children's Health. The streamlined site helps parents, caregivers, contractors, healthcare professionals, and others quickly locate critical information on preventing lead exposure. These efforts form part of the government-wide Federal Lead Action Plan, originally launched during President Trump's first term as a coordinated blueprint for reducing lead exposure across federal agencies.

The new guidance complements EPA's Real Water Technical Assistance program, which delivers hands-on support to communities and water systems facing infrastructure challenges or funding needs. EPA also continues to back state and local water infrastructure upgrades through funding opportunities. This year the agency announced nearly $3 billion to support lead pipe identification and removal.

These actions reinforce the Trump EPA's ongoing work to ensure that all Americans have access to clean, safe drinking water. Learn more about lead in drinking water.

Asthma and Children's Health StoryMap

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The original EPA press release was used as content for this blog post.

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