Safe Drinking Water Act
standards for safe drinking water both above and underground
The Safe Drinking Water Act is a federal law that was first enacted in 1974 and later amended in 1986 and 1996. Its purpose is to protect public health by ensuring that all Americans have access to safe and clean drinking water.
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets standards for various chemicals and contaminants in drinking water, such as lead, arsenic, and nitrate. The EPA also has the authority to regulate public water systems, enforce compliance with drinking water standards, and require public notification of any violations or health risks.
The Safe Drinking Water Act applies to all public water systems in the United States, which are required to test their water regularly and provide consumers with annual water quality reports. The law also allows for states to establish their own drinking water programs as long as they meet or exceed federal standards.
One of the most significant amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act was the addition of the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR), which requires public water systems to test for certain unregulated contaminants every five years. This helps the EPA to identify emerging health risks and take action to protect public health.
Overall, the Safe Drinking Water Act has been a critical tool in protecting the health of Americans by ensuring that our drinking water is safe and clean.
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