Texas House Bill HB3695

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to lead in drinking water at schools and child care facilities.

Impact

The implementation of HB 3695 introduces strict requirements for the testing and maintenance of drinking water within schools and child care facilities. Each institution is required to conduct periodic testing for lead contamination, with protocols set in place for the immediate remediation of any detected elevated lead levels. This may involve sealing off contaminated water outlets or installing certified filters to ensure safe consumption. Additionally, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality will provide guidelines and support for compliance, further emphasizing the importance of adhering to public health standards.

Summary

House Bill 3695 addresses the presence of lead in drinking water at public schools and child care facilities in Texas. The bill mandates the replacement of lead service lines in these institutions by the local public water systems, ensuring that no child at these facilities is exposed to elevated levels of lead in drinking water. This regulatory change is significant as it aims to protect children's health and ensure safe drinking environments in educational and care settings. The law sets specific deadlines for the replacement of these lead service lines and requires the schools and childcare facilities to develop action plans to prevent lead contamination.

Contention

Notably, the bill has faced some contention regarding the financial implications for local water systems, as they are responsible for covering the costs of service line replacements. Critics point out concerns about the potential financial burden on these systems and the feasibility of completing these mandates within the specified timelines. Furthermore, ensuring the effectiveness of lead testing and remediation measures has raised questions about the adequacy of current protocols and whether they sufficiently address all potential sources of lead exposure in drinking water systems.