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Press Release

Breaking: ELPC Commends Illinois General Assembly for Approving Preventing Lead in Drinking Water Legislation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 10, 2017

Contact: Judith Nemes
(312) 795-3706
[email protected]

STATEMENT BY HOWARD A. LEARNER
Executive Director, Environmental Law & Policy Center

“Illinois children have a basic right to safe drinking water in schools and child care centers. The Environmental Law & Policy Center commends the Illinois General Assembly for approving the Preventing Lead in Drinking Water legislation (SB550) today, which requires taking stronger steps to protect children from lead poisoning.”

“The Environmental Law & Policy Center thanks the bill’s co-sponsors, State Senator Heather Steans and State Representative Sonya Harper, for prioritizing safe drinking water for Illinois children. We recognize and appreciate the hard and effective work of Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan and our environmental colleagues in crafting SB550.”

“Toxic levels of lead exposure can cause significant damage to children’s intellectual and emotional development and contribute to behavioral problems. There is no safe level of lead in our drinking water supplies. This Illinois legislation is an important step in the right direction to protect our children’s health.”

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