S.40 – Testing and cleanup of lead contamination in drinking water in schools and child care facilities

(Vote scored: Third reading)

Pro-Environment vote: YES 

This bill requires testing for lead contamination in drinking water in all Vermont schools and childcare facilities. The bill sets a standard for acceptable lead levels (4 parts per billion) that is more protective than the federal EPA, and requires remediation of any lead contamination found at or above that level. Importantly, the Legislature also allocated funding to ensure the initial testing and remediation happens quickly and consistently across the state.

Status:Enacted; Senate vote 29-0.