Lead Levels Higher In Kids Living Near Closed Battery Recycling Plant In Vernon
In more news of possible lead contamination, The Desert Sun reports on steps California is taking to ensure the safety of drinking water.
Los Angeles Times:
Higher Levels Of Lead Found In Blood Of Children Near Exide Plant In Vernon
Children living near a now-closed Vernon battery recycling plant had higher levels of lead in their blood than those living farther away, according to an analysis by California health officials that is certain to increase pressure on state regulators to accelerate a massive cleanup of surrounding neighborhoods. The analysis released Friday by the state Department of Public Health found 3.58% of young children within a mile of the Exide Technologies facility had elevated levels of the poisonous metal in their blood in 2012, compared with 2.41% of children living at a greater distance. (Barboza, 4/8)
The Desert Sun:
California Looking At Response To Lead In Drinking Water
Amid a national conversation around lead in drinking water, California officials say they're taking steps to better ensure people in the state don't need to worry if their water is safe. An investigation by The Desert Sun and USA Today in March found nearly 100 public water systems in California with high readings of lead in tap water from 2012 to 2015. These included public schools where students could not use the drinking fountains because of concerns about lead. (Newkirk, 4/8)
The Desert Sun:
Bottle Fill-Up Stations Offer Safe Drinking Water
A local program that installs water bottle fill up stations in rural schools and community centers could be a model to increase access to safe drinking water throughout California. (Solis, 4/8)