A Senate Republican priority bill authored by state District 44 Sen. Eric Koch, R-Bedford, that would speed up the replacement of lead water lines in Indiana and better protect Hoosiers’ health has moved to the governor’s desk for final consideration.

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates more than 265,000 customer-owned lead water service lines remain in use in Indiana despite the U.S. banning the installation of lead service lines in 1986, according to a news release from Koch’s office.

Senate Enrolled Act 5 would enable utility companies with Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission-approved lead line service replacement plans to replace lead pipes quicker, more efficiently and at a lower cost.

“Lead poses a significant health risk to humans and there are still too many lead water service lines in Indiana to ensure Hoosiers will remain healthy if they continue to use those lines in the years to come,” Koch said. “This bill would take a significant step in addressing lead exposure in Indiana and better protecting Hoosiers’ health. “

The bill received unanimous support in both chambers.