Lead and arsenic poisoning is a major public health problem across the United States. Chronic exposure to these heavy metals can result in decreased learning ability, illness, and reduced developmental capacity in children and juveniles. This in turn leads to lower school performance and potentially increased crime rates. Public water supplies nationwide are also affected, while public health officials have been negligent in addressing this issue. The document argues this is a factor in the declining education and socioeconomic standing of the United States.