Bill could help eliminate NYC’s lead pipes. Why are environmental advocates opposed?
Jun 18, 2024
Lead poisoning prevention advocates plan to rally outside City Hall this morning, as they’ve done many times before. But this time, it’s to protest a new City Council bill that could require property owners to get rid of their dangerous lead pipes over the next decade.
The law, Int. No. 942 of 2024, would fine noncompliant homeowners up to $1,000 if they don’t replace their lead service lines – pipes that connect from the city’s water supply to individual buildings – in the next 10 years. Each replacement will cost between $5,000 and $10,000, according to the state health department, though the bill says lower-income homeowners will be eligible for financial aid.