Illinois Schools to Test for Lead in Drinking Water
Collins: “It is our duty to keep our students healthy and safe.”
SPRINGFIELD, IL – Elementary schools and daycare facilities must regularly test drinking water for lead contamination under legislation supported by State Sen. Jacqueline Collins. The governor signed the proposal into law today.
“Lead exposure in children is a serious issue that can cause developmental delays and learning disabilities,” said Collins, D-Chicago, prior to the governor’s signing. “It’s our duty to keep our students healthy and safe, and this measure will ensure that.”
Senate Bill 550 requires schools and daycare facilities constructed before 2000 that are attended by students in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade to test drinking water and water used for food preparation for lead contamination. The school district is required to notify parents and legal guardians if dangerous levels are discovered.
The new law is effective immediately.
