The "Accelerating a Lead-Free DC Amendment Act of 2025" seeks to eliminate lead service lines in the District of Columbia by January 1, 2030, through a comprehensive lead service line removal program managed by DC Water and the Department of Energy and Environment. Key provisions include the creation of an inventory of water service lines, tax credits of up to $5,000 for property owners who voluntarily replace lead service lines, and a schedule of copayments and penalties for noncompliance. The bill also establishes a job training program at the DC Infrastructure Academy to prepare residents for careers in lead service line replacement, ensuring union involvement in its development.
The bill amends existing laws to enhance the lead service line removal program and workforce development initiatives. Notable changes include the amendment of Section 6019a to set a new expiration date of June 30, 2026, and the replacement of the term "Program" with "Assistance Program" in Section 6019b, along with an increase in certain fines from $2,500 to $5,000. Additionally, it introduces the Lead-Free DC Green Job Creation Amendment Act of 2025, which focuses on youth workforce development linked to lead service line remediation, mandating a job training curriculum aimed at training at least 50 District residents per cycle while ensuring fair wages and representation for workers in related sectors.