C I T Y

O F

P H I L A D E L P H I A

CITY COUNCIL
HELEN GYM
ROOM 592, CITY HALL
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19107
(215) 686-3420 or 3421
Fax No. (215) 686-1930
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COUNCILWOMAN AT LARGE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DATE: January 28, 2016
CONTACT: Ian Gavigan (ian.gavigan@phila.gov) 215.686.3408
Councilwoman Gym introduces resolution calling for hearings on reducing lead exposure
PHILADELPHIAToday, in the wake of shocking news from Flint, Michigan where state-imposed
austerity measures have led to widespread lead poisoning, threatening the futures of thousands of
children, Councilwoman Helen Gym (At Large) presented a resolution calling for public hearings on the
best practices followed by the Philadelphia Water Department as well as on additional measures that can
be used to protect the public from lead exposure in household lines. The resolution was co-sponsored by
Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown (At Large), Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez (7th
District), Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell (3rd District), and Councilman Derek Green (At Large).
Exposure to lead, especially among babies and children, causes significant permanent neurological
damage. Household water has been estimated by the Environmental Protection Agency to compose 1020% of recorded human exposure to lead, and 40-60% for babies using formula. To ensure its safety,
Philadelphias water supply is regularly tested at the source and treated with protective anti-corrosion
treatments. Unfortunately, however, in cities like Philadelphia with aging infrastructure many homes still
have lead pipes or plumbing components and the public may not understand the continued risk of lead
exposure. The goal of these hearings is to collect and make public up-to-date information on the practices
used by the Philadelphia Water Department to limit lead exposure, as well as to gather and publicize ways
Philadelphians and their local government can further reduce their risk of exposure.
The national dialogue on water safety calls us to be vigilante and proactive in determining what best
practices we are following and to inform the public about lead exposure. These hearings will engage the
public and let all Philadelphians better understand, and work to improve, the ongoing efforts to keep our
water and our children safe. said Councilwoman Helen Gym.
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Councilwoman Helen Gym