Columbus is the latest city in Ohio to tap a state program to replace toxic lead service lines at licensed childcare facilities.

Through a partnership with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and Governor Mike DeWine’s H2Ohio initiative, the city will replace lead and galvanized service lines at childcare facilities that are served by Columbus Water and Power.

Mayor Andrew Ginther says the city plans to have all lead service lines removed by 2037, but childcare centers are a priority.

"It’s for the entire city," Ginther said. "Our hope is with the governor's help and the director's help, daycare centers and home care providers will go to the front of the line, because quite honestly, the children in their care are the most vulnerable."

Children up to the age of six are most vulner

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