Columbus, OH (May 21, 2025) — Rep. Dontavius Jarrells (D-Columbus) and Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel (R-Columbiana) introduced important legislation designed to eliminate all lead water lines that still exist in the state of Ohio. The Lead Line Replacement Act aims to get the lead out of Ohio’s drinking water systems by requiring all public water systems to fully replace lead service lines within 15 years. The legislation includes key provisions that support workforce development and ensure that low- and moderate-income customers will not be burdened by the cost of lead line replacement.
Organizations — including the Alliance for the Great Lakes, the Junction Coalition, and Ohio Environmental Council Action Fund — applauded the legislative efforts.
Ohio currently ranks third in the nation for the most lead pipes serving families, with an estimated 745,000 still in use. Removing these lead lines is critical to protecting Ohioans from the threat of lead exposure in drinking water. Health experts agree, exposure to lead, even at low levels, can cause serious health effects in all age groups, but especially in children. Lead poisoning from consuming contaminated water can cause irreversible brain damage in children that may take years to emerge. Exposure during adulthood increases the risk of heart disease as well as kidney and nervous system problems. A report completed by Scioto Analysis shows the monetized social benefit of full lead pipe replacement will grow Ohio’s economy by between $145 and $185 billion cumulatively over the next 15 years.
The following quote can be attributed, in whole or in part, to Annalisa Rocca, Drinking Water Manager for the Ohio Environmental Council (OEC) Action Fund:
“Many Ohioans are practically drinking water from a lead straw due to the state’s 745,000 active lead service lines. The Lead Line Replacement Act is a powerful bipartisan bill that is a step forward for Ohio’s communities and families. It sends a clear message that clean, safe drinking water isn’t a partisan issue; it’s a basic human need that deserves action. The Lead Line Replacement Act is more than smart policy, it reflects a shared commitment to protecting public health, supporting jobs, and building a stronger, healthier Ohio.”
The following quote can be attributed, in whole or in part, to Meleah Geertsma, Alliance for the Great Lakes’ Director of Clean Water and Equity.
“There are no safe levels of lead. The Lead Line Replacement Act will bring huge health and economic benefits to the region by reducing negative impacts to child development and improving cardiovascular health.”
The following quote can be attributed, in whole or in part, to Archie Beasley, Program Director for the Junction Coalition.
“We need a comprehensive approach to getting the lead out in Ohio. It starts with the Ohio Lead Line Replacement Act, which will remove and replace the lead water lines that bring water into the homes in our communities.”
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Contact: Karlena Wallace, Communications Director, Ohio Environmental Council, media@theoec.org or 614-487-7506