[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 88 (Thursday, May 20, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E563]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  SAFE DRINKING WATER IN PUBLIC PLAYGROUNDS, PARKS, AND LIBRARIES ACT

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                            HON. GRACE MENG

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 20, 2021

  Ms. MENG. Madam Speaker, l rise today with a call to action regarding 
the right to clean drinking water. Clean drinking water is not a 
luxury; it is a fundamental human right that should be accessible to 
all regardless of your socioeconomic status.
  There are over 30,000 public playgrounds and parks in major U.S. 
cities and approximately 17,000 public library locations today. 
Children and students frequently congregate in those places for 
learning, borrowing a book, or having fun. But neither they--nor their 
parents--should have to worry that the drinking water may be unsafe.
  That is why, today, I am introducing the Safe Drinking Water in 
Playgrounds, Parks, and Libraries Act. This bill would ensure states, 
municipalities, and libraries have the financial resources to replace 
drinking water fountains, monitor them, or replace the Lead Service 
Line connected to such fountains. While we can test water fountains for 
lead poisoning, some municipalities, schools, and libraries lack the 
resources to replace their water fountains; this is simply wrong. My 
bill will ensure such entities have the necessary financial resources 
to accomplish this task.
  Exposure to lead--even low levels--can have serious health and 
development consequences for infants, children under six, and pregnant 
women. For those exposed to this dangerous element, signs of poisoning 
may include cognitive impairment, behavioral problems, and other health 
related problems. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 
``there is no safe amount of lead exposure in children . . .,'' which 
is why it is critical that we advance efforts that prevents lead 
poisoning.
  Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the Safe Drinking 
Water in Public Playgrounds, Parks, and Libraries Act. It is undeniable 
that the fate of our children and future generations rests on the 
decisions we make today on access to clean water. Let's ensure all 
enjoy this fundamental human right.

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