Is Funding for Replacing Lead Pipes Becoming a Pipe Dream? These Lawmakers Hope Not.

Is funding for replacing lead pipes becoming a pipe dream? These lawmakers hope not.

Three years ago, the Minnesota Legislature resoundingly agreed to put a down payment on removing all lead pipes from the state. That resulted in Rep. Mary Franson, R-Alexandria, and other lawmakers approving $240 million in funding toward that goal. They invested the money with no illusions about the need for subsequent installments.  So with funding running out this year, and no federal support slated to come through after 2027, another splash …

05/07/2026 Bayside Editorial: Berlin must deal with lead pipes issue now - Worcester County News Bayside Gazette

Berlin must deal with lead pipes issue now It’s not a now-or-never proposition, but it’s close enough for Berlin town officials, who really don’t have a choice but to continue their pursuit of its water line replacement project along Williams Street. This is even though the project’s $1.9 million cost to remove and replace lead water lines at around 350 properties is more than the town has set aside for the work. Town officials know, of course, …

E&E News: EPA guidance on lead pipes could delay replacements

“They provide language that essentially gives water utilities ways to justify not replacing lead service lines,” said one activist.