SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – In response to lead testing that identified service and plumbing lines in twelve Decatur school buildings that pose a threat to students, state Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, has introduced a measure calling on Governor Rauner and the Trump Administration to prioritize eliminating sources of lead exposure in schools.

“Lead poisoning is completely preventable, yet it continues to be a serious issue in communities with older school buildings,” said Scherer. “I am extremely concerned about the results of recent lead testing in Decatur schools, and I am asking that elected officials at all levels work together to eliminate lead in schools and ensure healthy learning environments.”

Studies have found that even low levels of lead can be detrimental to a child’s development and could lead to behavioral and learning disabilities. In addition, lead can cause slowed growth as well as hearing problems for younger children. These effects are irreversible if left untreated, which is why Scherer is calling on Governor Rauner and the Trump Administration to take preventative measures now to protect local families.

“As a former teacher, I know that nothing is more important than the safety of our students in the classroom,” said Scherer. “It is critical that we take action to reduce lead levels found in water that students consume and bring protection to the health of our schoolchildren.”

To learn more about lead and how to protect your family, contact the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323) or visit epa.gov/lead. Scherer represents the 96th District, which includes portions of Christian, Macon and Sangamon counties.

CHICAGO – Concerned about the risks of lead contamination in school drinking water, state Rep. Justin Slaughter, D-Chicago, recently supported legislation that would require older school and daycare buildings to have their water systems tested.

“With an education system that uses older buildings, it’s crucial that we are proactive in ensuring our children are not exposed to the dangers of lead poisoning,” Slaughter said. “The tragedy that unfolded in Flint, Mich. has served as notice for communities around our state and around the country that we need to take this issue seriously.”

Senate Bill 550 mandates the testing of drinking water in schools and day cares that were built before 2000. Signed into law Tuesday, the bill requires water testing to be conducted by the end of 2017 for buildings built before 1987, which was when a ban on lead pipes initially took effect. Facilities built between 1987 and 2000 have until the end of 2018 to test their water systems.

“Every child deserves a safe learning environment, and through this testing we can help secure this goal,” Slaughter said. “In a city that relies on older infrastructure, we need to be accountable with what we serve our young students.”

For more information, please contact Slaughter’s constituent service office at 773-445-9700 or slaughterj@ilga.gov.