Bill > HB4732

This bill, titled the Lead-Safe Water for Families Act, establishes a program administered by the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to provide free lead-reducing water filters to households that are eligible for Medicaid and include a child under 18 or an expectant mother. A "lead-reducing water filter" is defined as a filter certified by a recognized organization like NSF International to effectively remove lead from drinking water. The program will supply one filter system per eligible household and replacement filters for at least two years, with the Department potentially contracting with vendors for procurement, distribution, and installation assistance. To ensure families are aware of this benefit, the Department will conduct outreach through various channels, including direct mailings to Medicaid enrollees and partnerships with community organizations, and will create a straightforward application process. The bill also mandates that the Department adopt rules to implement the program and requires annual reports to the General Assembly detailing program participation, costs, and any suggested improvements, starting by January 1, 2028. The underlying purpose of this legislation is to address the serious health risks associated with lead exposure, particularly for vulnerable populations, by offering an immediate solution to reduce lead in drinking water while longer-term infrastructure improvements are addressed.

Budget and Finance

https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?DocNum=4732&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104