Legislation co-sponsored by Assemblywoman Addie Jenne Russell in the New York State Assembly that requires schools to test water for lead contamination was signed into law this week.
The law requires school districts across New York State to regularly test their water for lead. Funding from the state will be available for the costs associated with testing and remediation.
“We’ve seen too many cases throughout the country of children being exposed to unsafe levels of lead, which can seriously impact their health and their ability to learn,” Assemblywoman Addie Jenne Russell, D-Theresa, said.
"We have seen locally that there are high levels of lead in our water supply. Old pipes are a prime culprit. It's not just lead paint in houses we need to worry about," Assemblywoman Russell said.
"I am glad we were able to include funding for our schools to perform these tests. Our budgets are tight, but our children are just as important as those in wealthier schools. If there ends up being problems in our schools, I will work hand in hand with our communities to ensure the problem is fixed so our kids' health is not harmed and our parents can have peace of mind," she added.
Assemblywoman Russell said she had made it a top priority to pass the new law that requires the water in our schools to be tested for lead contamination.
“Parents should never have to fear for their children’s safety when they send them to school. They deserve to know that they’re learning in a safe, healthy environment,” she said.
Under the new law, school districts and boards of cooperative educational services must conduct periodic tests of their drinking water sources. School districts are required to provide test results to parents and post them on the district’s website.
Costs associated with testing and remediation will be eligible for reimbursement by the state.
New emergency state regulations require all school districts to conduct water tests by Oct. 31. Elementary school buildings must be tested by Sept. 30.
