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"Filter First" Law

UPDATE March 11, 2024: Okemos is working to implement the "Filter First Legislation," ahead of the deadline. The state is finalizing guidance on the legislation which will be released in late April, and will include a Drinking Water Management Plan template, guidance for filters, and training.

As part of Okemos’ plan to enhance the water safety in the district, we will implement Michigan’s Clean Water Drinking Act, known as the “Filter First Legislation,” ahead of the state’s 2025-26 deadline.

What is the “Filter First” legislation?

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the “Filter First” legislation into effect on October 19, 2023. The law requires schools and childcare centers to install filtered-faucets, develop a management plan, and conduct regular testing to ensure children are drinking water free of lead.

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Schools and daycares will have until the end of the 2025-26 school year to install at least one bottle filling station or faucet filter per 100 children, and have to review and update drinking water management plans every five years. If a water test shows lead above 5 ppb, the problem fixture must immediately be shut off and post "Do not Drink" signs.

How is Okemos implementing the legislation?

The district is working with state and local government officials to seek guidance on the new legislation and see what resources are available.

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However, there are some parts of the legislation that have already gone into effect including:

- Bottle filling stations have been installed throughout the district.

- Shut off water at problem fixtures when testing over 5 ppb.

- Posted "Not for Drinking" signs at problem fixtures testing over 5 ppb.

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