National Cost Implications of Potential Long‐Term LCR Requirements

Abstract

Concerns that the current Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) may not adequately protect public health have prompted the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) to consider restructuring existing monitoring requirements by targeting a redefined pool of high‐risk sites or altering the sampling protocol. Analysis of historical lead and copper monitoring data from 18 public water systems (PWSs) verified that a significant percentage of PWSs with lead service lines are likely to be affected by potential Long‐Term Lead and Copper Rule (LT‐LCR) revisions. Data were used to facilitate a national cost‐of‐compliance estimate for additional implementation of corrosion control treatment (CCT) necessary to comply with the LT‐LCR and potential unintended consequences associated with those treatment changes. Cost estimates presented here can be used by USEPA to shape the upcoming rule and also by PWSs to assess potential costs associated with optimizing CCT for LT‐LCR compliance.