EPA is considering LCR revisions covering sampling, monitoring, flushing, public education, replacement of lead service lines, OCCT programs, the definition of control of the distribution system by the utility, etc. EPA initially proposed to craft revisions to the rule by this fall. However on March 18, EPA indicated the agency was temporarily stepping back from fall deadline. The issue of partial line replacement is causing difficultly for the agency. Last week, EPA indicated they plan to conduct additional stakeholder outreach as it considers revisions to the rule. The partial lead service line replacement issue is being consider not only as a risk to children’s health, but also as an environmental justice issue because it could place a disproportionate impact on disadvantaged households that cannot afford to replace the portion of the lead service line they own or who are dependent on a landlord to replace the private portion of the line. It is proving difficult to find a solution that is legal, practical and sufficiently protective of customers, including those that are financially stressed, according to EPA (reported by AWWA). This could lead the revisions to the rule to be delayed until at least 2014. However, the Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act of 2011 must meet its statutory compliance date of Jan. 4, 2014 and EPA expects to have guidance on the definition of “lead-free” by the end of 2013. That guidance should address when a fixture (like a meter) must be replaced during repair, testing, calibration, etc.