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Safe Drinking Water in Public Playgrounds, Parks, and Libraries Act

Floor Speech

Date: May 20, 2021
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Government Operations Health and Health Care Family

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Ms. MENG. Madam Speaker, l rise today with a call to action regarding the right to clean drinking water. Clean drinking water is not a luxury; it is a fundamental human right that should be accessible to all regardless of your socioeconomic status.

There are over 30,000 public playgrounds and parks in major U.S. cities and approximately 17,000 public library locations today. Children and students frequently congregate in those places for learning, borrowing a book, or having fun. But neither they--nor their parents--should have to worry that the drinking water may be unsafe.

That is why, today, I am introducing the Safe Drinking Water in Playgrounds, Parks, and Libraries Act. This bill would ensure states, municipalities, and libraries have the financial resources to replace drinking water fountains, monitor them, or replace the Lead Service Line connected to such fountains. While we can test water fountains for lead poisoning, some municipalities, schools, and libraries lack the resources to replace their water fountains; this is simply wrong. My bill will ensure such entities have the necessary financial resources to accomplish this task.

Exposure to lead--even low levels--can have serious health and development consequences for infants, children under six, and pregnant women. For those exposed to this dangerous element, signs of poisoning may include cognitive impairment, behavioral problems, and other health related problems. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, ``there is no safe amount of lead exposure in children . . .,'' which is why it is critical that we advance efforts that prevents lead poisoning.

Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the Safe Drinking Water in Public Playgrounds, Parks, and Libraries Act. It is undeniable that the fate of our children and future generations rests on the decisions we make today on access to clean water. Let's ensure all enjoy this fundamental human right.

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