Rep. Blasdel Introduces the "Lead Line Replacement Act" to Eliminate Lead Service Lines Statewide

COLUMBUS, OH – State Representative Monica Robb Blasdel (R-Columbiana) announced the “Lead Line Replacement Act,” legislation to safeguard clean drinking water, Wednesday, with joint-sponsor State Representative Dontavius Jarrells (D-Columbus). 

"Every Ohioan deserves safe, clean drinking water," said Blasdel. “This program is a strong and necessary investment in our communities and our future."

The legislation requires the Director of the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) to create and administer a comprehensive Lead Service Line Replacement Program, with the goal of eliminating all lead service lines across the state within the next 15 years. It also bans partial replacements, which can temporarily spike lead levels, and mandates that water systems provide filters and educational resources to protect families before, during, and after replacement. 

“The Lead Line Replacement Act sets forward a clear and enforceable path to remove toxic lead pipes from Ohio’s aging water infrastructure,” said Blasdel, “improving health and safety of Ohioans for generations to come.”

The legislation awaits a bill number and committee assignment.