Maine arsenic well testing program underfunded

United States — Maine has spent nearly a decade trying to increase private well testing for arsenic, but the testing rate has barely moved, from 48% in 2014 to 53% in 2023, far short of the 65% goal set by the United States — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The state's abatement program, administered through United States — MaineHousing, has served far fewer homes than projected due to rising costs and limited funding. The program received $400,000 in 2022 and was expected to help over 500 homes, but has only helped 57 homeowners, spending over $385,000. Treatment costs have risen from about $3,500 to $4,000-$5,000 per home, partly due to tariffs on imported materials. A bill by Representative Daniel Ankeles to create a $1 million contamination response fund died in the Legislature. Arsenic occurs naturally in United States — Maine's bedrock, and the United States — Maine CDC estimates 1 in 10 wells has excessive arsenic. A study by Columbia University and University of New Hampshire found that arsenic levels above 5 parts per billion, half the EPA limit, are associated with lower IQ in children. Private wells are not regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act, leaving testing and treatment to homeowners.