PKFL Responds to Trump Budget Cuts to Lead Pipe Replacement, Drinking Water Safety

April 3, 2026

Today, President Trump released a budget proposal that reduces investments in safe drinking water and lead service line replacement, raising serious concerns for communities still grappling with aging infrastructure. The President’s proposal includes a $2.5 billion cut to EPA’s State Revolving Funds. In response to the proposal, Protect Kids from Lead’s Mae Stevens released the following statement: 

“The Protect Kids from Lead Coalition is concerned that the recently released budget proposal reduces investments in safe drinking water and lead service line replacement at a critical moment, as communities across the country continue to rely on aging water systems that expose families, and especially children, to lead.

“Preventing lead exposure is one of the most effective and economically sound public health investments we can make. Proactive investments in lead service line replacement and drinking water protection help avoid far greater long‑term health, educational, and economic costs for families, communities, and taxpayers.

“All families deserve access to safe drinking water, which is fundamental to supporting healthy communities. We encourage Congress and the administration to work together to provide stable, sufficient funding that protects children from lead exposure and ensures every family can trust the water coming from their tap.”