HR 1413, the Get Arsenic Out of Our Drinking Water Act, would reduce the maximum allowable levels of arsenic in drinking water and would double the funding authorized for the State Revolving Fund so that U.S. water suppliers can modernize their facilities to meet the new standard.

  “I am proud to join with my colleagues in opposing the Administration’s irresponsible weakening of the proposed EPA standards to protect our drinking water,” said Congressman Langevin.  “The Get Arsenic Out of Our Drinking Water Act will ensure safe and clean water for current and future generations.  Tampering with our water quality is risky politics at the expense of the American population.”

  In January of 2001, the EPA mandated that arsenic levels in drinking water be reduced to 10 parts per billion.  This reduction was ordered in response to a report published by the National Academy of Sciences that recommended the outdated 1942 standard of 50 parts per billion be reduced “as promptly as possible."

  The Academy reported that arsenic is a potent carcinogen that is linked to bladder, lung and skin cancer.  In addition, arsenic has been found to cause kidney and liver cancer, birth defects and complications with the reproductive system.

  “Providing the resources for safe drinking water is a critical responsibility of Congress and the Administration,” added Langevin.  “This legislation is a giant leap in protecting water supplies throughout the nation and here in Rhode Island.”

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