Lead

Why should I be concerned about lead in drinking water?

Lead is a naturally-occurring metal that can be found in paint, soil, plumbing components and gasoline. There is no known safe level of lead exposure. Exposure in early childhood has been linked to decreased IQ and behavioral disorders.

There are an estimated 170,000 lead service lines remaining in Wisconsin and 6% of Wisconsin kids have tested positive for lead poisoning.

Solutions / Recommendations

Removing lead services lines is the long-term solution for removing lead from drinking water. In the short-term filtration provides some relief. Regular testing is necessary to know if drinking water is contaminated. There are several legislative proposals to work on this issue. 

  • SB 371/AB 399– bonding for lead service line replacement and granting bonding authority. 
  • SB 423 – lead testing of potable water sources in certain schools; providing loans for lead remediation in certain schools; and providing an exception to referendum restrictions for lead
  • SB 424- testing for lead in drinking water in facilities used for recreational and educational camps and child care.

More Information

Explore the links below to learn more about lead pollution in Wisconsin’s drinking water.

Questions? Or, have a story to share on how lead poisoning from water has impacted you?
Contact us at [email protected]

(Sources: Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Wisconsin Conservation Voters)