State Extends Lead Testing Funding for Child Care Facilities

New Hampshire took a step on December 11, 2025 to keep a statewide effort alive that seeks to remove lead from drinking water in schools and licensed child care programs. The Executive Council approved a contract that releases the remaining program funding of $337,553 from the Drinking Water and Groundwater Trust Fund, extending support through September 2026.

The program began after the state required testing of drinking water outlets, including fountains, classroom sinks and kitchen fixtures, in 2018. Under the policy, systems that test above the action level of 5 parts per billion must be remediated and the state will reimburse the costs of remediation up to 100 percent for the facility. Remediation measures include replacing faucets and pipes, installing filtration systems or corrosion control treatment, and where necessary removing drinking water outlets from service.

Administration of the effort rests with the Department of Health and Human Services Division of Public Health, in partnership with the Department of Environmental Services. The Trust Fund originally allocated $400,000 in October 2024 under a 14 month agreement that ran through December 2025. The new allocation makes the remaining funds available to support further testing and fixes through next September.

Division of Public Health staff estimate that about half the money will go to roughly 30 facilities, with 10 of those having active applications, and state records indicate another approximately 150 facilities would qualify if they apply. The program operates on a first come first served basis and testing is free for licensed child care providers that enroll.

For Sullivan County families and child care operators, the extension matters both as a public health safeguard and an equity issue. Lead exposure in early childhood can impair development and exacerbate existing disparities. Rural and lower income programs often occupy older buildings with aging plumbing and may face barriers to applying for assistance. With limited remaining funds, timely enrollment and outreach to centers that serve vulnerable children are critical to ensuring equitable distribution of aid.

Local providers should consider enrolling so their outlets can be tested at no cost and, if necessary, receive fully reimbursed remediation. Sustained funding and proactive state outreach will be essential to protect children in Sullivan County and beyond from preventable lead exposure.