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Levels of Toxic Lead Exceed FDA Limit in 30% of Chicago Water Samples

HeadlineApr 13, 2018

In Chicago, a new analysis of hundreds of drinking water samples finds toxic lead was found in the water of nearly 70 percent of homes across the city—with three in 10 samples exceeding the maximum level allowed by the Food and Drug Administration. The Chicago Tribune reports the contamination is due to lead service lines used throughout the city until Congress banned the practice in 1986. The office of Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has said it’s up to individual homeowners—not the city—to replace lead pipes bringing water to their properties.

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