To protect Michigan’s children from exposure to lead in drinking water, the state has enacted the “Filter First” law, which went into effect on October 24, 2023. Comprised of the Clean Drinking Water Access Act (2023 PA 154) and amendments to the Child Care Organizations Act (1973 PA 116), this law requires schools and daycare facilities to take proactive steps to ensure safe drinking water for students. 

 What Is the Filter First Law? 

The Filter First law mandates that all schools and daycares in Michigan: 

• Develop a Drinking Water Management Plan (DWMP): Schools must document all water fixtures, assign unique identifiers, outline flushing procedures, and establish a filter maintenance and replacement schedule. 

• Install Lead-Reducing Filters: Certified filters that meet NSF/ANSI standards must be installed on all consumptive fixtures by the 2025-2026 school year. 

• Test Filtered Water: Schools must conduct annual lead sampling of water using state-certified laboratories. 

How MTC Can Help Schools and Daycares Meet Compliance 

MTC is here to simplify the process and help schools and daycare facilities meet all the requirements of the Filter First law. Our comprehensive services include: 

Fixture Inventory and Mapping: 

We will conduct thorough inspections of all water fixtures in your building, assigning unique IDs and mapping their locations. This process lays the foundation for your DWMP by identifying each fixture’s purpose and its connection to the water distribution system.

Customized DWMP Development: 

MTC will create a detailed Drinking Water Management Plan tailored to your school’s needs. This includes defining roles and responsibilities, selecting appropriate lead-reducing filters, establishing flushing protocols, and outlining an annual sampling schedule.

Sampling and Laboratory Testing: 

Following EPA’s 3Ts (Training, Testing, and Taking Action) guidelines, our team will collect and analyze both “first draw” and “flushed” water samples. These samples will be sent to state-certified drinking water labs for accurate lead testing.

Filter Installation and Maintenance Support: 

We will ensure all consumptive fixtures are equipped with certified lead-reducing filters. Additionally, we will provide ongoing support for maintenance schedules to keep your school in compliance.

Data Reporting and Solutions: 

MTC will provide detailed reports interpreting water sample results. If elevated lead levels are found, we will recommend corrective actions such as fixture upgrades, filter replacements, or additional testing.

Why Partner with MTC? 

With extensive experience in environmental engineering and water quality management, MTC is uniquely equipped to help schools navigate the complexities of the Filter First law. From initial inspections to long-term compliance support, we will help your school meet all requirements, providing peace of mind for administrators, educators, parents, and students.

Ready to keep your school in full compliance with Michigan’s Filter First law?

Contact MTC today at 800-968-8378 to learn how we can help you provide safe, lead-free drinking water for Michigan’s children.