Updates.
January 20, 2026
PKFL’s Wendi Wilkes Pens Op-Ed in Crain’s Chicago Calling for Lead-Reducing Water Filter Expansion in Illinois
In a new op-ed published by Crain’s Chicago Business, our Executive Director Wendi Wilkes makes the case for expanding Illinois’ Medicaid Section 1115 Waiver to cover certified lead-reducing water filters for households with lead service lines
January 13, 2026
Protect Kids From Lead Supports Illinois’ Use of the Medicaid 1115 Waiver to Fund Lead-Reducing Water Filters in Medicaid Households
Illinois Environmental Council (IEC) and Southsiders Organized for Unity and Liberation (SOUL) urge Governor Pritzker to pursue and support use of the waiver.
December 9, 2025
EPA Announces $3 Billion in Funding for Lead Pipe Replacement
The new $3 billion in FY25 funding, along with $1.1 billion in previously unspent lead funding, is a major boost for replacing lead pipes, and states must move quickly to ensure communities receive protection.
August 19, 2025
Protect Kids from Lead Coalition Applauds Bipartisan Push to Eliminate Lead from Drinking Water
Senator Ossoff’s amendment boosts funding by nearly 50% to replace lead service lines nationwide
June 18, 2025
The EPA announces $26 million in new grants.
The EPA just announced $26 million in new grants to help states reduce lead in drinking water at schools and child care centers.
June 9, 2025
New Report Finds 91 Lead Exceedances Across Illinois in Five Years, Underscores Urgent Need for Statewide Protection.
A new report released today reveals the persistent and disproportionate risks many Illinois communities face from lead-contaminated drinking water.
June 9, 2025
91 Lead Exceedences in Five Years: How Illinois Can Protect Drinking Water Now.
This report reveals the alarming scope of lead-contaminated water in Illinois, the state with the highest number of lead service lines in the country.
Feb 4, 2026
Protect Kids from Lead Applauds Introduction of Lead-Safe Water for Families Act
Rep. Marcus C. Evans Jr. Introduces Legislation to Protect Families from Lead in Drinking Water