We, the undersigned residents of Jackson, Mississippi, urgently call on our leaders to ensure access to clean, safe, and affordable drinking water for all residents.

Jackson's water system has faced significant challenges, including a collapse in August 2022 that left 180,000 residents without safe drinking water for weeks. The system remains under federal oversight, with chronic infrastructure failures, lead contamination, and widespread PFAS ("forever chemicals") contamination. Despite recent improvements, many residents continue to distrust the water due to ongoing violations of federal drinking water standards.

 

In response to these challenges, JXN Water has proposed a nearly 12% rate increase to cover operating costs as federal funding diminishes. The average customer could see an increase of approximately $9 per month. However, this increase places an additional financial burden on residents already struggling with the affordability of safe drinking water. 

Due to contamination concerns and rising costs, many families are forced to rely on expensive bottled water, which often comes in plastic containers that harm the environment and strain household budgets. The increasing costs of both tap water and bottled water place an unsustainable burden on vulnerable communities.

We demand that our government and water providers:

• Implement monthly water subsidies or relief programs that specifically include provisions for glass-bottled drinking water to ensure safe consumption and reduce plastic waste.

 

• Invest in critical infrastructure upgrades to eliminate contamination, including PFAS chemicals, and prevent leaks and service disruptions.

 

• Increase transparency and accountability in water management, testing, and billing practices.

 

• Prioritize environmental justice by addressing systemic neglect in vulnerable communities.
   
  Why This Matters:

 

• Health Risks: PFAS contamination and plastic micro-particles in bottled water pose serious long-term health risks, especially for children, seniors, and immunocompromised individuals.

 

• Financial Burden: Rising water and bottled water costs place an unbearable financial strain on low-income families and veterans, worsening existing inequalities.

 

• Environmental Impact: Plastic bottled water contributes to pollution, harming our neighborhoods and ecosystems. Glass bottles offer a safer, sustainable alternative that supports recycling and reuse.

 

• Human Right: Access to clean, affordable water is a fundamental right. Glass-bottled water subsidies promote fairness, safety, and sustainability for all Jackson residents.

Sign this petition to stand with our community and demand fair, sustainable water access now!