EPA overhauls lead rule, critics say more lead pipes need replacing The rule aims to keep drinking water safe from lead and avoid water crises like the one in Flint, Michigan, that put a national spotlight on the issue. Written By: By Danielle Kaeding, Wisconsin Public Radio | 6:23 pm, Dec. 23, 2020 × Crews replace a lead service line on Emilie Street in Green Bay, Wis, on Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2020. It was the last one in the city, officials said. Megan Hart/WPR Public water supplies will have to test schools and day care centers for lead in drinking water under an overhaul of a rule finalized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. But critics say the changes fail to speed up replacement of lead pipes that wear away and pollute drinking water.