Dold provides update after high lead levels found in elementary school

After tests recently revealed high levels of lead in drinking fountains at an elementary school in Waukegan, Illinois, U.S. Rep. Bob Dold (R-IL) outlined steps being taken to correct the issue on Tuesday.

Dold spoke with officials at Waukegan Public School District 60 and the EPA after pro-active lead testing revealed elevated levels at a number of water fountains there.

“Lead exposure is a very serious issue that can lead to behavior and learning problems, lower IQ, slowed growth, and more,” Dold said. “That’s why we’re taking every possible step to ensure students’ safety. The Waukegan School District proactively tested the water and is currently working to replace the impacted pipes and water fountains. Over the coming weeks, I’ll be working with them to ensure all of the affected families have the information they need and the schools have the resources to keep students safe.”

Dold worked to pass the Safe Drinking Water Act earlier this year. The bill ensures that the public is notified the moment that a problem with drinking water is identified. The bipartisan measure would set standards for how states and the EPA communicate the results of water tests to the public. Dold is working to get the bill approved in the Senate to ensure that families have the information that they need to retain safe drinking water.