The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will provide $6.2 million to the Northern Mariana Islands to help reduce exposure to lead in drinking water, officials announced Thursday.
The funding, distributed through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, will support efforts to identify and replace lead service lines that carry water to homes.
EPA officials said the investment aims to protect public health, particularly for children, who are most vulnerable to the effects of lead exposure.
Communities may use the funds to locate lead pipes, plan removal projects and complete replacement work, according to the agency.
EPA leaders said the funding is part of a broader national initiative to address aging infrastructure and reduce lead contamination in drinking water systems.
