April 28, 2025

Let’s Get the Lead Out of Ohio Water 

Ohio ranks third in the nation for the most lead service lines still in use, with an estimated 745,000 pipes delivering water to homes and businesses. Getting your water delivered through a lead service line is like drinking water through a lead straw. Yet, lead was a commonly used material for water service lines from the late 19th century until the mid-20th century due to its durability and flexibility. Growing awareness of lead’s health risks led Congress to ban its use in drinking water infrastructure in 1986. 

Even at low levels, exposure to lead can cause severe health effects, including impaired brain development, lower IQ, and reduced attention spans. Children under the age of six are most at risk due to their developing brains. For adults, prolonged exposure increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, kidney damage, and nervous system disorders.

Replacing lead service lines would yield significant benefits for all Ohio residents. A study commissioned by our team at the OEC, and completed by Scioto Analysis, estimates that over 15 years, full replacement could grow Ohio’s economy by $145 – $185 billion. This growth stems from reductions in cases of ADHD, dementia, depression, anemia, and heart disease, leading to millions of dollars saved on healthcare costs for families. Additionally, removing lead pipes is projected to prevent approximately 10,000 deaths linked to infant and cardiovascular mortality.

Last fall, the U.S. EPA finalized a strong Lead and Copper Improvements Rule, requiring the replacement of all lead service lines within ten years. Unfortunately, this rule now faces legal and legislative challenges.

To ensure replacement stays on track in Ohio, the Ohio Environmental Council Action Fund is working closely with Assistant Minority Leader Representative Dontavious Jarrells (D-Columbus) and Representative Monica Robb Blasdel (R- Columbiana) on ambitious legislation in the Ohio General Assembly that requires complete replacement of all Ohio’s lead service lines within 15 years. 

OEC remains committed to advocating for funding and support for water systems to do the important work of lead service line replacement, benefiting Ohioans across the Buckeye State. Let’s get the lead out!