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Exposing children to lead--in contaminated water, for example--can lead to long-term health problems like anemia, kidney and brain damage, as well as learning disabilities and decreased growth. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), child care facilities may be at risk for elevated levels of lead in their drinking water because they are often closed on weekends, holidays, and extended breaks where lead in pipes and other fixtures can leach into water.

We talk to GAO education expert Jackie Nowicki--a director in our Education, Workforce, and Income Security Team--about her recent review of lead in child care facilities.