Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for Lead and Copper: Improvements (LCRI)".
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Summary
This joint resolution, H.J. Res. 18, seeks to overturn a new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule known as the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), which was published in the Federal Register on October 30, 2024. The LCRI updates the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for lead and copper, aiming to strengthen protections against lead contamination in drinking water. Key provisions of the LCRI include lowering the lead action level from 15 parts per billion (ppb) to 10 ppb, requiring the replacement of lead service lines within 10 years, improving sampling protocols, enhancing public education efforts, and addressing copper corrosion in water systems. The resolution invokes the Congressional Review Act (CRA), specifically chapter 8 of title 5 of the United States Code, which allows Congress to pass a joint resolution of disapproval for recently finalized federal rules. If enacted, the resolution would nullify the LCRI rule, meaning it would have no legal force or effect, and the EPA would be barred from issuing a substantially similar rule in the future without new congressional authorization. The measure was introduced by Representative Gary Palmer (R-AL) on January 13, 2025, and referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. As a joint resolution, it requires passage by both the House and Senate and presentation to the President for signature to take effect; it is not a constitutional amendment proposal. The LCRI rule represents a significant effort to reduce lead exposure, particularly in vulnerable communities, but critics argue it imposes substantial costs and operational burdens on water utilities, especially small and rural systems, and may exceed the EPA's statutory authority under the Safe Drinking Water Act.
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![Rep. Palmer, Gary J. [R-AL-6]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/p000609_200.jpg)