Despite a federal law mandating free water in schools, many institutions still struggle to provide safe drinking water, highlighting issues with lead contamination and varying state policies.
Lela Nargi reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- Almost 15 years after the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, many schools still don't meet potable water standards.
- Schools often lack federal guidelines on addressing water quality, leading to inconsistent access and safety measures.
- Elevated lead levels in school water systems pose significant health risks, with many states lacking mandatory testing laws.
Key quote:
“The agencies we expect to protect children at school and at daycare simply put blinders on regarding this issue.”
— Cori Bell, senior attorney at the Natural Resources Defense Council
Why this matters:
Ensuring safe drinking water in schools is crucial for children's health and cognitive function. Without consistent federal oversight, many schools fail to provide safe water, risking lead exposure and related health issues. Read more: How contaminated water contributes to mental illness.
