In response to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR), Charles County has launched the Service Line Assurance Initiative, a comprehensive program dedicated to meeting the new regulations.

The revised rule mandates utilities nationwide to implement new protections from lead exposure in drinking water, including developing a publicly available database of service line materials by October 2024. Existing records show no known publicly owned lead service lines in the Charles County water system. 

In addition to the inventory, the revised rule requires increased and more transparent communications with the public, including providing educational outreach. A major component of the Service Line Assurance Initiative is requesting customers with a water pipe constructed with an unknown material to submit their service line data via an online self-reporting survey. A service line is typically found in the basement where the water pipe enters the home, delivering water from the main distribution line to a customer’s property.

“Our commitment to ensuring safe and high-quality drinking water is unwavering,” said Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins, II, Esq. “The Service Line Assurance Initiative reinforces our dedication to transparency and community involvement. Together, we can proactively address the EPA’s new regulations and continue providing reliable water services to you, our customers.”

See more details about the program in the full release