U.S. Rep. Lawrence Statement on Elevated Lead Levels Discovered in Annual Hamtramck Water Test

Hamtramck, MI- Today, U.S. Representative Brenda L. Lawrence (MI-14) issued the following statement regarding the elevated lead levels found in the City of Hamtramck's water testing samples.

"I am deeply concerned about the elevated lead levels found in Hamtramck's recent water tests. It is completely unacceptable that yet another community in Michigan is being affected by lead in their drinking water," said Rep. Lawrence. "The health and safety of my constituents is my top priority. During this challenging time, I stand ready to assist Hamtramck residents, the City of Hamtramck, and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Michiganders have been here before, and we must continue to remain proactive in protecting the health of Hamtramck residents."

Each year, the City of Hamtramck tests tap water in homes for lead and copper. The city found lead levels of 17 parts per billion (ppb) in six homes they tested-samples were collected from a total of 42 homes-which exceeds the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) Action Level of 15 ppb.

The city is working with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to distribute one free water filter with replacement cartridges, per address, to Hamtramck residents on Thursday, October 21, 2021 from 11AM-2PM in the Hamtramck Town Center parking lot located at 9521 Joseph Campau.

Hamtramck residents can contact MDHHS at 844-934-1315 to get their service line inspected or drinking water tested for lead.