Questions and Answers: Lead and Copper Rule Revisions Virtual Engagements
Where can I sign up to speak at a listening session?
The public is invited to speak during the April 28th or the May 5th listening session. Those interested in speaking can sign up for a 3-minute speaking slot on by submitting a registration form. EPA will send an email to each speaker to confirm their speaking time and date.
Will the events be public?
Yes, EPA intends to make the public listening sessions and each roundtable available for viewing to those who are not participating but are interested in listening. Once available, details for watching the events will be posted on our website. No registration/sign up will be required.
What if I can’t attend the listening session or any of the events?
Members of the public that are unable to attend any of the events will be able to submit comments via the docket at http://www.regulations.gov, Docket ID: EPA-HQ-OW-2021-0255 until June 30, 2021.
How can I submit my community for a community-focused roundtable discussion?
EPA requests that communities that would like to be considered for a roundtable submit their nomination letter to EPA via email to LCRR@epa.gov not later than April 23, 2021. Nomination letters should include the following information, 1) Name of location, 2) Primary point of contact and contact information, 3) A description of how your community has been underserved or experienced disproportionate impacts from drinking water lead exposure, 4) A list of no more than 25 recommended community participants and/or local organizations. EPA recommends that the list of participants/organizations that are submitted be representative of all interests in their community including, but not limited to, local government entities, public water utilities, community-organized groups, environmental groups and elected officials.
What information regarding community-focused roundtable participants should I provide for EPA to consider when selecting the communities for roundtables?
Please include no more than 25 recommended community participants and/or local organizations. EPA recommends that the list of participants/organizations that are submitted be representative of all interests in their community including, but not limited to, local government entities, public water utilities, community-organized groups, environmental groups and elected officials. Confirming interest from each participant prior to submitting a nomination is encouraged but not required.
How will EPA contact community representatives to participate in the community-focused roundtables?
EPA will be reaching out to selected communities through the Point of Contact provided on their nomination letter. Please ensure this contact information is current.
How can I submit my organization for a stakeholder roundtable discussion?
EPA requests that organizations, including drinking water utilities, intergovernmental associations, environmental organizations, environmental justice organizations, public health organizations, and consumer associations, that would like to participate in a roundtable submit their nomination letter to EPA via email to LCRR@epa.gov not later than April 23, 2021. Nomination letters should include the following information, 1) Name of organization, 2) Primary point of contact and contact information, 3) Why your organization should be considered as a participant.
When will I know if my community or organization has been selected?
EPA will be reaching out to all entities that have submitted nomination requests via telephone or email once selections are made.
Where can my state sign up for the national meeting?
States do not need to sign up at this time. EPA will be reaching out directly to primacy agencies (e.g., states, tribes, and territories) with a specific date, times and details of this meeting in the coming months. EPA will be posting meeting materials and additional event details on our website as they become available.
EPA now has two dockets on the LCRR -- which one should I send my comments to?
On March 31, 2021, EPA announced upcoming public listening sessions and roundtables to ensure that communities and stakeholders provide their perspectives to EPA on protections from lead in drinking water. The goal of public engagement is to obtain further input on EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR), especially from individuals and communities that are most at-risk of exposure to lead in drinking water. To submit comments on this action, visit: http://www.regulations.gov, Docket ID: EPA-HQ-OW-2021-0255 until June 30, 2021.
On March 12, 2021, EPA published in the Federal Register two notices regarding the LCRR as follows: Final Rule delay of effective date (86 FR 14003, March 12, 2021); and Proposed Rule delay of effective and compliance dates (86 FR 14063, March 12, 2021). The request for public comment on these extensions, which closes on April 12, is separate from the public listening sessions and roundtables. To submit comments on the extensions visit: https://www.regulations.gov/docket/EPA-HQ-OW-2017-0300.
For any questions, please email LCRR@epa.gov.