A critical first step toward safer water

I am writing to thank state Sens. Iris Martinez, Chris Nybo, Sam McCann and Laura Murphy for co-sponsoring legislation to get the lead out of drinking water in communities across the state. Lead is a neurotoxin that impairs child development and behavior. Lead contamination in water is a serious public health issue. As lead service lines are the largest source of water contamination, this initiative is a critical first step in ensuring lead-free water.

That's why it's so important that these senators co-sponsored SB3080, a bill that would require communities to come up with plans for removing all lead service lines within 10 years. We urge their colleagues to send this bill to the governor's desk this session. Our children's health cannot wait.

Tyler Stotland

Chicago