Rep. Payne, Jr. Announces $1.5 Million Grant to Test Drinking Water in Newark’s Schools 

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. praised the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today for awarding $1.5 million in grant funding to New Jersey to test for lead in the drinking water of all city schools and childcare facilities.

“The greatest threat with this water issue is the health of our children,” said Congressman Payne, Jr.  “We need to know if lead is getting into the drinking water of our schools and find out why.  Then we can work to get it out and ensure the water is never contaminated again.  I am pleased the EPA has stepped up to help Newark’s children and that New Jersey will focus testing on facilities that serve low-income residents.”

Rep. Payne, Jr. has been a strong advocate for clean drinking water for all his constituents.  He introduced the Test for Lead Act (H.R. 4879) in Congress to make sure states had a lead testing program before they were eligible for federal drinking water funds.  In addition, he volunteered at two different bottled water distribution facilities to help residents and listen to their concerns.

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