Written Testimony before the Assembly Public Hearing on Lead Service Line Replacement Programs

Removing New York’s estimated 550,000 lead service lines to comply with the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) will cost the state an approximate $695 million per year. Despite substantial federal investments, through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), New York still faces substantial funding gaps that threaten its ability to meet the 2037 federal deadline.

Our comments highlight the scope of this funding shortfall and offer recommendations on how New York can overcome these challenges with targeted policy changes, stronger funding strategies, and more efficient program design.