Florida is on track to collect nearly $1 billion in federal funds it doesn’t deserve to replace toxic lead pipes, according to a government watchdog report that concludes Illinois and a handful of …

Summary

Florida is set to receive nearly $1 billion in federal funds to replace lead service lines, despite lacking significant need, according to an EPA inspector general report.

The state falsely claimed to have 1.1 million lead pipes, a figure disputed by its own utilities.

Meanwhile, states like Illinois, with over 400,000 lead pipes in Chicago alone, are underfunded despite having far greater needs.

Critics urge the EPA to reallocate funds, as lead exposure causes severe health risks.